Cast
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Maurice Chevalier
as Father Antonio
Angie Dickinson
as Jessica Brown Visconti
Noël-Noël
as Old Crupi
Gabriele Ferzetti
as Edmondo Raumo
Sylva Koscina
as Nunzia Tuffi
Agnes Moorehead
as Maria Lombardo
Marcel Dalio
as Luigi Tuffi
Antonio Cifariello
as Gianni Crupi
Marina Berti
as Filippella Risino
Georgette Anys
as Mamma Parigi
Kerima
as Virginia Toriello
Carlo Croccolo
as Beppi Toriello
Rossana Rory
as Rosa Masudino
Manuela Rinaldi
as Lucia Casabranca
Angelo Galassi
as Antonio Risino
Crew
Director
- Jean Negulesco
- Oreste Palella
Producer
- Jean Negulesco
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Jessica 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 Jean Negulesco 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 1962, 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 Jessica took approximately 5 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 112 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 157 minutes long.
- 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.
- The film contains approximately 2328 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1962, when this film was released:
- The Vietnam War was becoming increasingly controversial.
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Jessica shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike It's Boring Here, Pick Me Up, which focuses more on action than character development, Jessica offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Lady Bodyguard and Not the End explore similar territory, Jessica 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: April 19, 1962
- Runtime: 1h 52m
