“Shy People” is a 1987 movie that tells the story of a New York journalist named Diana Sullivan who is sent to the Louisiana Bayou to find her estranged cousin, a woman named Ruth. The movie explores themes of cultural clash, self-discovery, and the power of nature. Directed by Andrei Konchalovsky, “Shy People” features an impressive cast, including Jill Clayburgh, Barbara Hershey, and Martha Plimpton.
The movie opens with Diana Sullivan (Jill Clayburgh) living her fast-paced life in New York City. She is a successful journalist, but her life is turned upside down when she is sent to the Louisiana Bayou to find her estranged cousin, Ruth (Barbara Hershey). Ruth is a mysterious woman who has been living in the Bayou for years, and Diana is determined to find out why she left her family and what she has been doing all these years. As Diana delves deeper into Ruth’s life, she discovers a world that is very different from her own.
“Shy People” is a movie that explores the clash between two very different cultures. Diana’s fast-paced, urban lifestyle is a stark contrast to Ruth’s simple, rural life in the Bayou. The movie also explores themes of self-discovery and the power of nature. As Diana spends more time in the Bayou, she begins to discover things about herself that she never knew before. She also begins to appreciate the beauty and power of nature in a way that she never has before.
Key Takeaways
- “Shy People” is a 1987 movie that explores themes of cultural clash, self-discovery, and the power of nature.
- The movie features an impressive cast, including Jill Clayburgh, Barbara Hershey, and Martha Plimpton.
- “Shy People” is a thought-provoking movie that will leave viewers thinking about the themes and motifs long after the credits have rolled.
Overview of ‘Shy People’
Shy People is a 1987 American drama film directed by Andrei Konchalovsky. The movie is set in Louisiana Bayou and follows the story of a New York magazine writer, Diana Sullivan (Jill Clayburgh), and her teenage daughter, Grace (Martha Plimpton). The film explores the culture shock and the clash of personalities between the two women and the locals of the Bayou.
The movie begins with Diana, a successful writer, being assigned by her editor to write an article about her distant relatives living in Louisiana Bayou, whom she has never met. Diana and Grace travel to the Bayou to meet the relatives, and the culture shock they experience is evident from the start. The locals are wary of outsiders, and the Sullivan women are not used to the slow pace of life in the Bayou.
As the story progresses, Diana discovers that her relatives are living in poverty and are involved in illegal activities. She also meets a shy and mysterious man named Ulysses (Barbara Hershey), who lives in the Bayou and is hiding from her past. Diana becomes fascinated with Ulysses and her way of life, and the two women form an unlikely bond.
The film is a slow-paced drama that explores the themes of culture shock, family, and self-discovery. The movie’s cinematography is stunning, and the Bayou’s lush scenery is a significant part of the film’s atmosphere. The acting performances of the cast are excellent, with Jill Clayburgh and Barbara Hershey delivering standout performances.
Overall, Shy People is a well-made drama that explores the complexities of human relationships and the clash of cultures. The film’s slow pace may not be for everyone, but those who appreciate character-driven stories will find it a rewarding experience.
Cast and Characters
Lead Performances
Shy People (1987) is a character-driven film that features a talented cast with memorable performances. Jill Clayburgh plays the lead role of Diana Sullivan, a successful New York magazine editor who travels to Louisiana to meet her estranged cousin, Ruth (played by Barbara Hershey), and her family. Clayburgh delivers a nuanced portrayal of a woman who is both confident and vulnerable, as she navigates the unfamiliar terrain of the Louisiana Bayou.
Barbara Hershey’s performance as Ruth is equally impressive. She portrays a woman who is deeply connected to her family and her roots, but also struggling with her own demons. Hershey’s portrayal of Ruth’s emotional journey is raw and authentic, and she brings a sense of depth and complexity to the character.
Supporting Roles
The supporting cast of Shy People is also noteworthy. Martha Plimpton plays Grace, Ruth’s teenage daughter, who is grappling with her own issues of identity and belonging. Plimpton’s performance is both subtle and powerful, as she captures the inner turmoil of a young woman trying to find her place in the world.
Mare Winningham plays the role of Brenda, Ruth’s best friend, who provides a strong support system for the family. Winningham’s performance is understated but effective, as she brings a sense of calm and stability to the chaotic world of the Louisiana Bayou.
Overall, the cast of Shy People delivers strong performances that bring the characters to life and make the film a memorable and engaging experience.
Plot Analysis
Shy People (1987) is a drama film directed by Andrei Konchalovsky and set in the Louisiana Bayou. The movie tells the story of Diana Sullivan (Jill Clayburgh), a successful but emotionally distant journalist who travels to Louisiana to interview her estranged mother, Ruth (Barbara Hershey), who lives in a remote swamp with her family.
The plot of the movie revolves around the clash between Diana’s urban, sophisticated lifestyle and Ruth’s rural, primitive way of life. As Diana spends time with her mother and her family, she begins to discover the secrets of their past and the reasons for their isolation from the rest of society.
The movie is a slow-paced character study that explores the themes of family, identity, and the search for meaning in life. It is a poignant and thought-provoking movie that offers a deep insight into the human condition.
Overall, the plot of Shy People (1987) is a compelling and well-crafted story that keeps the audience engaged from beginning to end. The movie is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys character-driven dramas with a strong emotional core.
Themes and Motifs
Isolation and Connection
One of the central themes in “Shy People” is the idea of isolation and connection. The film explores how characters who are disconnected from one another and from society as a whole can find ways to connect and form meaningful relationships. The main character, Diana, is initially portrayed as a disconnected, aloof woman who is more comfortable with her own thoughts than with other people. However, as the film progresses, she begins to form connections with the people around her, particularly with her distant cousin, Ruth.
The film also explores the isolation and connection that can arise from cultural differences. Diana is a sophisticated New Yorker who is uncomfortable with the rural, Southern culture of her cousin’s family. However, as she spends more time with them, she begins to appreciate their way of life and even finds common ground with them.
Culture Clash
Another important motif in “Shy People” is the clash between urban and rural cultures. Diana’s New York lifestyle is a stark contrast to the slower, more traditional way of life in Louisiana. The film portrays this clash in a nuanced way, showing both the strengths and weaknesses of each culture.
The clash between cultures is also reflected in the film’s visual style. The sleek, modern look of Diana’s New York apartment is contrasted with the lush, natural beauty of the Louisiana bayou. This contrast highlights the differences between the two cultures and underscores the challenges that Diana faces as she tries to adapt to life in the bayou.
Overall, “Shy People” is a thought-provoking exploration of isolation, connection, and culture clash. The film’s nuanced portrayal of these themes and motifs makes it a compelling and memorable viewing experience.
Cinematography and Setting
The cinematography in Shy People (1987) is outstanding, capturing the eerie and mystical atmosphere of the Louisiana Bayou. The film’s director, Andrei Konchalovsky, uses a combination of slow panning shots, close-ups, and wide-angle shots to create a sense of isolation and unease. The cinematography is particularly effective in the scenes where the characters are lost in the swamp, with the camera capturing the dense foliage and murky water in great detail.
The setting of the film is also a major highlight. The Louisiana Bayou is a unique and captivating location, and the film does an excellent job of showcasing its beauty and mystery. The film’s production team went to great lengths to create an authentic portrayal of the bayou, with the use of practical effects and real locations. The result is a setting that feels both realistic and otherworldly, adding to the film’s dreamlike quality.
Overall, the cinematography and setting of Shy People (1987) are major strengths of the film. They work together to create a haunting and unforgettable experience for the viewer.
Soundtrack and Score
The soundtrack and score of Shy People (1987) were composed by Tangerine Dream, a German electronic music group. The score features a blend of electronic and acoustic instruments, creating an eerie and atmospheric sound that perfectly matches the film’s tense and mysterious tone.
The opening credits feature the song “Le Parc” by Tangerine Dream, which sets the stage for the film’s Louisiana bayou setting. The score also includes tracks such as “Betrayal (Sorcerer Theme)” and “White Eagle”, which add to the film’s sense of foreboding and danger.
In addition to the original score, the film also features several popular songs from the 1980s, including “I Can’t Wait” by Nu Shooz and “I’m So Excited” by The Pointer Sisters. These songs provide a contrast to the film’s darker tone and help to create a sense of nostalgia for the time period in which the film was made.
Overall, the soundtrack and score of Shy People (1987) are an integral part of the film’s success. The music adds to the film’s atmosphere and helps to create a sense of unease that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.
Critical Reception
Contemporary Reviews
Upon its release in 1987, Shy People received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the film’s atmospheric setting and powerful performances, while others found the plot slow and meandering. Roger Ebert of the Chicago Sun-Times gave the film three out of four stars, calling it “a haunting and beautifully photographed movie” that “creates a convincing sense of place and mood.” However, Janet Maslin of The New York Times was less impressed, writing that the film “gets lost in its own swampy atmosphere” and “never quite comes into focus.”
Retrospective Assessment
In the years since its release, Shy People has gained a cult following among fans of independent cinema. Many critics have praised the film’s unique blend of Southern Gothic and magical realism, as well as its exploration of themes such as family, identity, and tradition. In a retrospective review for The A.V. Club, Ignatiy Vishnevetsky wrote that the film “creates a vivid, dreamlike world that’s both seductive and unsettling” and “stands as a testament to the power of cinema to transport us to other worlds.” Similarly, in a piece for The Guardian, Peter Bradshaw called the film “a strange and beautiful movie” that “captures a sense of place and mood that’s both specific and universal.”
Overall, while Shy People may not be for everyone, it remains a fascinating and thought-provoking work of cinema that continues to captivate audiences to this day.
Conclusion
Shy People (1987) is a unique and intriguing film that takes viewers on a journey through the Louisiana Bayou. The film explores themes of family, identity, and self-discovery through the lens of two vastly different characters: a New York magazine editor and her distant cousin, a shy and reclusive swamp dweller.
The film’s cinematography and score are standout features, capturing the eerie and mystical atmosphere of the Bayou. The performances of Jill Clayburgh and Barbara Hershey are also noteworthy, bringing depth and complexity to their respective characters.
Overall, Shy People (1987) is a thought-provoking and visually stunning film that is worth a watch for those interested in character-driven dramas with a touch of the supernatural.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the plot summary of ‘Shy People’?
‘Shy People’ is a 1987 drama film that tells the story of a successful New York magazine journalist, Diana Sullivan (Jill Clayburgh), who travels to Louisiana to find her distant cousin, Ruth (Barbara Hershey), who lives in a remote bayou community. The film explores the cultural differences between the two women, as well as their personal struggles and relationships.
How does ‘Shy People’ end?
The film ends with Diana returning to New York and writing an article about her experience in Louisiana. Ruth stays behind, but she has found a new sense of purpose and connection with her community.
What are the main themes explored in ‘Shy People’?
The main themes explored in ‘Shy People’ include cultural differences, personal growth, family relationships, and the importance of community.
Who stars in ‘Shy People’, and how are their performances?
Jill Clayburgh plays Diana Sullivan, and Barbara Hershey plays Ruth. Both actresses deliver strong performances that capture the emotional complexity of their characters. The supporting cast, including Martha Plimpton and Merritt Butrick, also give notable performances.
In which locations was ‘Shy People’ primarily filmed?
‘Shy People’ was primarily filmed on location in Louisiana, including the bayou communities of Houma and Dulac.
How did critics and audiences receive ‘Shy People’?
‘Shy People’ received mixed reviews from critics and audiences. Some praised the film for its powerful performances and exploration of complex themes, while others criticized it for being slow-paced and overly melodramatic. Despite the mixed reception, the film was nominated for the Palme d’Or at the 1987 Cannes Film Festival.