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The BFG

The BFG (2016)

An orphan little girl befriends a benevolent giant who takes her to Giant Country, where they attempt to stop the man-eating giants that are invading the human world.

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Directed by Steven Spielberg

Cast

Mark Rylance
Mark Rylance

The BFG

Ruby Barnhill
Ruby Barnhill

Sophie

Rebecca Hall
Rebecca Hall

Mary

Jemaine Clement
Jemaine Clement

Fleshlumpeater

Bill Hader
Bill Hader

Bloodbottler

Penelope Wilton
Penelope Wilton

The Queen

Marilyn Norry
Marilyn Norry

Matron

Chris Shields
Chris Shields

General #1

Matt Frewer
Matt Frewer

General #2

Geoffrey Wade
Geoffrey Wade

General #3

Rafe Spall
Rafe Spall

Mr. Tibbs

Haig Sutherland
Haig Sutherland

Danish Father

John Emmet Tracy
John Emmet Tracy

Palace Staff #1 (aka Footman)

Adam Godley
Adam Godley

Manhugger / Lout #1

Daniel Bacon
Daniel Bacon

Bonecruncher / Lout #2

Crew

Director
  • Steven Spielberg
Producer
  • Sam Mercer
  • Frank Marshall
  • Steven Spielberg

Reviews

Simon Foster

"The only element of the entire production that inspires any kind of wonder is just how far from a satisfying adaptation the film proves to be..."

Read the full review here: http://screen-space.squarespace.com/reviews/2016/5/15/the-bfg.html

May 15, 2016

Reno
6/10

**Little Sophie's giant adventure.**

I did not dislike it, but I thought it was not creative enough. I had seen the British animation and this one retained the same story. Of course, which was originally from the book, but nothing new other than a decent computer graphics. I liked the performance of the little girl who had played the Sophie. She was the only live character until the final stage where more joins her. So she was wonderful along with Mark Rylance's CGI role.

Straight to the point, the adventure begins right away. Sophie, the ten year old orphan girl was snatched by a giant named BFG after she witnessed him wandering on the street through her dorm room window on one midnight. Fearing she might expose the giant's existence, so he had to take her with him to his country. Then there they become very close, but a new threat arises when the other giants suspect of a human's existence in their enclosure. So fighting them, followed by a permanent solution to menace caused by them is what narrated in the rest.

It was like Peter Jackson's 'The Lovely Bones' for Steven Spielberg, I mean the films that did not work for them. I anticipated a major surge in this by the family film specialist Spielber. Because I usually love his film, tell me who won't. From children to adults, his films targets all ages. But if you had seen the old version, then you will lose half the interest. That's definitely won't be the same for the kids, they will love it. There's no harm for watching it once, so go for it.

_6/10_

Dec 4, 2016

Gimly
4/10

The animated '89 version of _The BFG_ was a staple of my youth, so naturally I was excited for a Steven Spielberg redo. Unfortunately, I don't think the tale lends itself well to the live action format. That, or the hands making this piece were unable to concentrate the narrative to where it went. In either case, the end product is a film with many tiny endearing moments of nostalgia that at no point come together to create a laudable whole.

_Final rating:★★ - Had some things that appeal to me, but a poor finished product._

Jun 24, 2017

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Thematic Analysis

The BFG represents a fascinating example of Adventure/Family/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 Steven Spielberg 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 2016, 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 The BFG took approximately 16 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • With a budget of $140.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 117 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 145 minutes long.
  • The film contains approximately 1997 individual shots.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.

Historical Context

  • In 2016, when this film is released:
  • Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
  • Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While The BFG 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 Black Stallion Returns, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The BFG offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Anka and The Man Who Invented Christmas explore similar territory, The BFG 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: June 1, 2016
  • Runtime: 1h 57m
  • Budget: $140,000,000
  • Revenue: $195,243,411

Where to Watch

Disney Plus