Cast
View AllMatt Bushell
as MCPO Neil 'Spaz' Callaghan
Denis Arndt
as CIA Director Weylon Armitage
Ben Cross
as Cmdr. Tim Mackey
Keith David
as MCPO Scott Boytano
Bruce McGill
as Gen. Norman T. Vance
Nicholas Gonzalez
as Lt. Robert James
Peter Coyote
as President Adair T. Manning
April Grace
as Ellie Brilliard
Glenn Morshower
as Admr. Henry D. Wheeler
Shane Edelman
as Campbell Dunleavy
Kenneth Choi
as Ambassador Li Sung Park
Eyal Podell
as Ens. David Barnes
Mykel Shannon Jenkins
as CWO Lawrence Meideros
Joseph Steven Yang
as Cmdr. Hwang
Dennis James Lee
as Col. Koh Lip
Crew
Director
- James Dodson
Producer
- Roee Sharon Peled
- Rana Joy Glickman
- James Dodson
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action/Adventure/Thriller film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Behind Enemy Lines II: Axis of Evil distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director James Dodson 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 2006, 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 Behind Enemy Lines II: Axis of Evil took approximately 15 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 96 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 124 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 4 months to complete.
- The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 2006, when this film is released:
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- 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 Behind Enemy Lines II: Axis of Evil 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 Jacket, which focuses more on action than character development, Behind Enemy Lines II: Axis of Evil subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Soldier and Saints and Soldiers explore similar territory, Behind Enemy Lines II: Axis of Evil 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: October 17, 2006
- Runtime: 1h 36m