Cast
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Ewan McGregor
as Sam Foster
Ryan Gosling
as Henry Letham
Naomi Watts
as Lila Culpepper
Kate Burton
as Mrs. Letham
Elizabeth Reaser
as Athena
Bob Hoskins
as Dr. Leon Patterson
Janeane Garofalo
as Dr. Beth Levy
BD Wong
as Dr. Bradley Ren
John Tormey
as Custodian / Piano Mover #1
José Ramón Rosario
as Cabbie / Piano Mover #2
Becky Ann Baker
as Paramedic #1 / Butch Cook
Lisa Kron
as Paramedic #2
Gregory Mitchell
as Dance Instructor
John Dominici
as Boy / Young Henry
Jessica Hecht
as Boy's Mother
Crew
Director
- Marc Forster
Producer
- Tom Lassally
- Arnon Milchan
- Eric Kopeloff
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Stay examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Marc Forster 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 2005, 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 Stay took approximately 34 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $50.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 99 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 132 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 9 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The musical score contains over 75 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2005, when this film is released:
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Stay shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Another Man's Garden, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Stay subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Castaway on the Moon and The Enormity of Life explore similar territory, Stay 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: September 24, 2005
- Runtime: 1h 39m
- Budget: $50,000,000
- Revenue: $8,342,132
Where to Watch
