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Serving in Silence - The Margarethe Cammermeyer Story

Serving in Silence - The Margarethe Cammermeyer Story (1995)

Jan 23, 1995 1h 31m Drama TV Movie

After serving in the military for more than twenty years, including a tour of duty in Vietnam, Colonel Margarethe Cammermeyer (Glenn Close) had seen her share of battles. But nothing could prepare her for the fight ahead: an intensely personal struggle against the U.S. Army when she becomes the highest ranking officer ever to be discharged for being a lesbian. With the support of her partner Diane (Judy Davis), Cammermeyer undertakes an against-all-odds battle against the Army's policy. But to do so, she must risk everything – her career, her privacy and even the love of her family.

Directed by Jeff Bleckner

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Jeff Bleckner
Writer
  • Alison Cross
Producer
  • Richard Heus

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Serving in Silence - The Margarethe Cammermeyer Story 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 Jeff Bleckner 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 1995, 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 Serving in Silence - The Margarethe Cammermeyer Story took approximately 6 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 91 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 119 minutes long.
  • The film contains approximately 1675 individual shots.
  • The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.

Historical Context

  • In 1995, when this film was released:
  • The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
  • Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

While Serving in Silence - The Margarethe Cammermeyer Story shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Pornomelancholia, which focuses more on action than character development, Serving in Silence - The Margarethe Cammermeyer Story offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Billion Dollar Spy and Prayers for Bobby explore similar territory, Serving in Silence - The Margarethe Cammermeyer Story 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: January 23, 1995
  • Runtime: 1h 31m

Where to Watch

fuboTV