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Badland

Badland (2007)

Nov 30, 2007 2h 45m Drama

Jerry (Jamie Draven) was an idealist when he served in the first Gulf War. But when he was later deployed to Iraq, Jerry was an older man, a father of three and embittered by broken promises and unfulfilled desires. When Jerry returns from Iraq he has been transformed by horrors that cannot be forgiven. He lives a life of poverty, his children afraid of him and his wife, Nora (Vinessa Shaw), unsympathetic and unhappy. When Jerry discovers that Nora has betrayed him, his anger and despair drive him to commit an act so heinous and irreversible that nothing he had experienced in combat could have prepared him for.

Directed by Francesco Lucente

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Francesco Lucente
Producer
  • Jörg Neumann
  • Olimpia Lucente

Reviews

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Badland 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 Francesco Lucente 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 2007, 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 Badland took approximately 19 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • With a budget of $10.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 165 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 204 minutes long.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
  • The screenplay went through 8 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.

Historical Context

  • In 2007, 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 Badland shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Miz Cracker's Favorite Haunts, which focuses more on action than character development, Badland offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Double Sacrifice and The King of Comedy explore similar territory, Badland 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: November 30, 2007
  • Runtime: 2h 45m
  • Budget: $10,000,000
  • Revenue: $25,309

Where to Watch

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