Cast
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Jack Nicholson
as Edward Periman Cole
Morgan Freeman
as Carter Chambers
Sean Hayes
as Thomas
Beverly Todd
as Virginia Chambers
Alfonso Freeman
as Roger Chambers
Dawn Lewis
as Flight Attendant
Rob Morrow
as Dr. Hollins
Brian Copeland
as Lee
Rowena King
as Angelica
Annton Berry Jr.
as Kai
Destiny Brownridge
as Maya
Verda Bridges
as Chandra
Ian Anthony Dale
as Instructor
Jennifer Defrancisco
as Emily
Angela Gardner
as Female Administrator
Crew
Director
- Rob Reiner
Writer
- Justin Zackham
Producer
- Alan Greisman
- Neil Meron
- Rob Reiner
- Craig Zadan
Reviews
John Chard
You measure yourself by the people who measure themselves by you.
Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman play two terminally ill men who check out of their cancer ward and head off on a road trip to complete their Bucket List of things to do before they die.
Every once in a while a film comes along with such simplicity of warmth it rises above any charge of clichés and sugar coated sappiness. The Bucket List is one such film. Its message is simple, its filming style equally so. It's performed with such quality by Nicholson and Freeman (if the whole film had just been the two of them chatting in the hospital room it would have been a winner), with director Rob Reiner astute and wily enough to let them flow, that even as the inevitable sadness follows the laughs, you will feel far better for having watched this film.
Rewarding adult cinema with class showing on both sides of the camera. 8.5/10
Sep 25, 2014
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Bucket List 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 Rob Reiner 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 2007, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Bucket List took approximately 12 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $45.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 97 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 134 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 174 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The screenplay went through 14 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The musical score contains over 51 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2007, when this film is released:
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Bucket List shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Salvador (Puig Antich), which focuses more on action than character development, The Bucket List subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like SommerHundeSöhne and Reclaim Your Brain explore similar territory, The Bucket List 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: December 25, 2007
- Runtime: 1h 37m
- Budget: $45,000,000
- Revenue: $175,400,000
