Cast
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Bette Midler
as Dr. Deborah Finegold-Fifer
Woody Allen
as Nick Fifer
Bill Irwin
as Mime
Daren Firestone
as Sam Fifer
Rebecca Nickels
as Jennifer Fifer
Paul Mazursky
as Doctor Hans Clava
Joan Delaney
as Woman Interviewer
Gregory Moore
as Barber Shop Quartet
Jonathan Guss
as Barber Shop Quartet
Darrell Mason
as Joe Cool & The Coolers
Marc Shaiman
as Pianist
Amanda Bruce
as Woman Interviewee
Betsy Mazursky
as Information Woman
Jack Brodsky
as Pharmacist
Patrick Farrelly
as Santa
Crew
Director
- Paul Mazursky
Writer
- Paul Mazursky
- Roger L. Simon
Producer
- Paul Mazursky
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Scenes from a Mall 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 Paul Mazursky 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 1991, 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 Scenes from a Mall took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $3.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 89 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 110 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 47 unique compositions.
- The costume department created over 467 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1991, when this film was released:
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Scenes from a Mall shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The People Under the Stairs, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Scenes from a Mall subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Marley & Me and Phil Wang: Wang in There, Baby! explore similar territory, Scenes from a Mall 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: February 22, 1991
- Runtime: 1h 29m
- Budget: $3,000,000
- Revenue: $9,563,393
