Cast
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Clive Owen
as Jack Marcus
Juliette Binoche
as Dina Delsanto
Bruce Davison
as Walt
Adam DiMarco
as Swint
Valerie Tian
as Emily
Navid Negahban
as Rashid
Amy Brenneman
as Elspeth
Keegan Connor Tracy
as Ellen
Andrew McIlroy
as Roy Loden
Tanaya Beatty
as Tammy
Josh Ssettuba
as Cole Patterson
Janet Kidder
as Sabine
Christian Scheider
as Tony
Harrison MacDonald
as Shaftner
Willem Jacobson
as Stanhope
Crew
Director
- Fred Schepisi
Producer
- Gerald Di Pego
- Fred Schepisi
- Curtis Burch
Reviews
furious_iz
Clive Owen is a barely functioning alcoholic English teacher at a small upscale prep school, who has lost his passion for writing and teaching. He's circling the drain of life, his job and his family relationships are hanging by a thread. But he is still passionate about the written word and the English language even if he is having trouble connecting with most of his students
Enter Juliette Binoche as a well known and successful painter with a frosty temperament, who is suffering from severe rheumatoid arthritis and has taken a teaching position at the small school. An instant antagonistic, flirtatious friendship is formed, as the two teachers inspire their students into a battle over which is more important, words or pictures, and in doing so inspire themselves.
A fairly average film that is elevated by the engaging performances of the two leads, who have great chemistry together. It's probably not going to change your life, but it is entertaining as a more intelligent romantic comedy/drama.
Jan 30, 2018
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Words and Pictures 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 Fred Schepisi 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 2014, 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 Words and Pictures took approximately 27 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 111 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 155 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 49 unique compositions.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 2430 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 2014, when this film is released:
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Words and Pictures shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Head Under Water, which focuses more on action than character development, Words and Pictures offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Khadak and Changing Skins explore similar territory, Words and Pictures 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: May 22, 2014
- Runtime: 1h 51m
- Revenue: $3,346,257
Where to Watch
