Cast
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Eric Bana
as Henry DeTamble
Rachel McAdams
as Clare Abshire
Michelle Nolden
as Annette DeTamble
Arliss Howard
as Richard DeTamble
Ron Livingston
as Gomez
Stephen Tobolowsky
as Dr. Kendrick
Brian Bisson
as Mark Abshire
Maggie Castle
as Alicia Abshire
Brooklynn Proulx
as Clare at Six and Eight
James Lafazanos
as Jeremy (Gallery Owner)
Dan Duran
as Lottery Announcer
Jan Caruana
as Dr. Osman's Nurse
Jean Yoon
as Dr. Montague
Duane Murray
as Resident Doctor
Philip Craig
as Philip Abshire
Crew
Director
- Robert Schwentke
Producer
- Dede Gardner
- Nick Wechsler
Reviews
Wuchak
_**Reverent drama/romance/fantasy with McAdams and Bana**_
A young woman (Rachel McAdams) meets a man in a Chicago library (Eric Bana) and recognizes him as the man she loves who has traveled back in time from his future to meet her as a girl. Can their relationship handle the stress of him suddenly disappearing without warning and the complications thereof?
“The Time Traveler’s Wife” (2009) is a drama/romance with a sci-fi element comparable to “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” (2004). Like that film, it can be mind-boggling, but both Bana and McAdams make it worthwhile and there are thought-provoking & moving parts. Eric is masculine and charismatic here, really showing off his talents, while Rachel shines as one of the most uniquely beautiful women to walk the earth. Also check her out in the underrated “The Lucky Ones” (2008).
The ending shows that the real problem in America is old, white, gun-toting Republicans. (rolling my eyes). Now we’re talking fantasy.
The film runs 1 hour, 47 minutes, and was shot in Toronto, Hamilton & Chalk Lake, Ontario, Canada, with establishing shots of Chicago.
GRADE: B-/B
Sep 2, 2020
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Time Traveler's Wife 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 Robert Schwentke 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 2009, 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 Time Traveler's Wife took approximately 3 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $39.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 108 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 167 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The costume department created over 131 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 2009, 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 The Time Traveler's Wife shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike 2gether: The Movie, which focuses more on action than character development, The Time Traveler's Wife subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like James vs. His Future Self and Little Siberia explore similar territory, The Time Traveler's Wife stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: August 14, 2009
- Runtime: 1h 48m
- Budget: $39,000,000
- Revenue: $101,344,412
