Cast
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Jamie Gillis
as Jerry Martin
Serena
as Nancy Church/Diane Church
Georgina Spelvin
as Madeline Church
John Leslie
as George
Paul Thomas
as Archie
Lesllie Bovee
as Barbara Church
Desiree Cousteau
as Charlie's Starlet
Laurien Dominique
as Constance Church
John Alderman
as J.C. Church
Stacy Evans
as Girl with Jerry and Denise
John F. Goff
as Charlie Appleton
Bonnie Werchan
as Blonde in White with Jerry
Jaquita Johnson
as Party Girl
Con Covert
as Gay Party Guy - Plaid Jacket
R.J. Reynolds
as Gay Party Guy - Trenchcoat
Crew
Director
- Gary Graver
Writer
- Bill Barron
- Harold Lime
Producer
- Judy Christensen
- Harold Lime
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Ecstasy Girls examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Gary Graver brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1979, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Ecstasy Girls took approximately 9 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $0.2 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 97 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 148 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 1108 individual shots.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1979, when this film was released:
- The Watergate scandal changed public perception of political institutions.
- Disco music dominated popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Ecstasy Girls shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Misty, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Ecstasy Girls subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like S&M Judge and Una cavalla tutta nuda explore similar territory, The Ecstasy Girls stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: November 8, 1979
- Runtime: 1h 37m
- Budget: $200,000
