Cast
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Jennifer Aniston
as Justine Last
John C. Reilly
as Phil Last
Jake Gyllenhaal
as Holden Worther
Zooey Deschanel
as Cheryl
Deborah Rush
as Gwen Jackson
Mike White
as Corny
John Carroll Lynch
as Jack Field, Your Store Manager
Tim Blake Nelson
as Bubba
John Doe
as Mr. Worther
Roxanne Hart
as Mrs. Worther
Aimee Garcia
as Nurse
Annie O'Donnell
as Haggard Woman
Jon Shere
as Lester
Alice Amter
as Big Haired Woman
Jean Rhodes
as Old Woman
Crew
Director
- Miguel Arteta
Writer
- Mike White
Producer
- Matthew Greenfield
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Good Girl examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Miguel Arteta 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 2002, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Good Girl took approximately 4 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $8.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 93 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 133 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 2002, when this film is released:
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Good Girl shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Henry Poole Is Here, which focuses more on action than character development, The Good Girl subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Georgia Rule and Buying the Cow explore similar territory, The Good Girl stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: January 12, 2002
- Runtime: 1h 33m
- Budget: $8,000,000
- Revenue: $16,900,000
