Cast
View All
Crew
Director
- Mark Kidel
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Elvis Costello: Mystery Dance represents a fascinating example of Music/Documentary 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 Mark Kidel 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 2013, 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 Elvis Costello: Mystery Dance took approximately 22 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 89 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 127 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
- The costume department created over 472 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The film contains approximately 1328 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 2013, when this film is released:
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Elvis Costello: Mystery Dance shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Wayne's World 2, which focuses more on action than character development, Elvis Costello: Mystery Dance subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Lulu and Jimi and Shine a Light explore similar territory, Elvis Costello: Mystery Dance 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 9, 2013
- Runtime: 1h 29m
