Cast
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Raúl Juliá
as Gomez Addams
Anjelica Huston
as Morticia Addams
Christopher Lloyd
as Uncle Fester
Christina Ricci
as Wednesday Addams
Carel Struycken
as Lurch
Dan Hedaya
as Tully Alford
Jimmy Workman
as Pugsley Addams
Elizabeth Wilson
as Abigail Craven / Dr. Greta Pinder-Schloss
Dana Ivey
as Margaret Alford / Margaret Addams
Judith Malina
as Grandma
Paul Benedict
as Judge Womack
Christopher Hart
as Thing
John Franklin
as Cousin It
Tony Azito
as Digit Addams
Mercedes McNab
as Girl Scout
Crew
Director
- Barry Sonnenfeld
Producer
- Scott Rudin
Reviews
Gimly
A tonally loyal adaptation of the 60's TV show. Some nonsensical moments and lacklustre scenes but Huston and Julia steal the thing with such fervour you can't help but enjoy yourself at least a little.
_Final rating:★★★ - I personally recommend you give it a go._
Apr 4, 2017
CinemaSerf
I reckon central casting could have searched for an hundred years and never cast a better "Morticia" than Anjelica Huston in this enjoyable big screen adaptation of the television series. Happily married to "Gomez" (another inspired casting choice in Raul Julia), they live their nocturnally focussed lives with children "Pugsley" (Jimmy Workman),"Wednesday" (an almost unrecognisable Christina Ricci) and stoic, eight-foot tall, butler "Lurch" (Carer Struycken) in their Gothic mansion. Their idyllic existence is put under threat, though, when their erstwhile kindly uncle "Fester" (Christopher Lloyd) is duped by a couple of arch-cons to try and claim their family fortune - and home - and thus render them broke and homeless. Now, can "Gomez" thwart this cunning plan before his family are actually reduced to sleeping in graves - for real? The casting, writing and direction from a top-of-his game Barry Sonnenfeld make for an entertaining spoof of all thing macabre whilst still extolling a semblance of family virtues and loyalty - told in real time and using some amiable flashbacks from when they were all "younger". The visual effects are understated and effective - especially regarding their loyal retainer that is the disembodies "hand" and the script allows Lloyd in particular, but all in general to deliver a dialogue that raises a smile without raising an eyebrow. This is great fun and on a big screen, well worth a watch.
Feb 12, 2023
Thematic Analysis
The Addams Family represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Fantasy 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 Barry Sonnenfeld 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 critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Addams Family took approximately 34 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $30.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 100 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 121 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 4 months to complete.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1991, when this film was released:
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Addams Family shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Re-Animator, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Addams Family subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Bread and Tulips and The Mummy explore similar territory, The Addams Family 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: November 22, 1991
- Runtime: 1h 40m
- Budget: $30,000,000
- Revenue: $191,502,426
Where to Watch
