Cast
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Beau Bridges
as Orville
Beverly D'Angelo
as Evalita
Tess Harper
as Sara Lee
Judge Reinhold
as Harmony
Amy Wright
as Lurlene
Patrika Darbo
as Marlene
Bert Remsen
as Daddy
Molly McClure
as Mama Wheelis
Keith Carradine
as Clarence
Newell Alexander
as Sid Cranford
Emily Bridges
as Little Evalita
Carolyn Brooks
as Linnie Sue
Schuyler Fisk
as Little Sara Lee
Justin Smith
as Little Orville
Katherine A. Torn
as Little Lurlene
Crew
Director
- Jack Fisk
Producer
- Monty Montgomery
- Steve Golin
- Sigurjón Sighvatsson
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Daddy's Dyin'... Who's Got the Will? represents a fascinating example of Comedy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Jack Fisk 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1990, 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 Daddy's Dyin'... Who's Got the Will? took approximately 8 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 95 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 148 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 951 individual shots.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1990, when this film was released:
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Daddy's Dyin'... Who's Got the Will? shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Family Squares, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Daddy's Dyin'... Who's Got the Will? subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Dìdi (弟弟) and Star Spangled Banners explore similar territory, Daddy's Dyin'... Who's Got the Will? 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: May 4, 1990
- Runtime: 1h 35m
- Revenue: $1,373,728
