Cast
View All
Pat Morita
as Investigator Fujitsuka Natsuo
Jay Leno
as Detective Tony Costas
Chris Sarandon
as Philip Madras
Tom Noonan
as Scully
Ernie Hudson
as Shortcut
John Hancock
as Lieutenant Ryerson
Al Waxman
as Dingman
Dennis Holahan
as Derek Jarryd
Danny Kamekona
as Oshima
Soon-Tek Oh
as Kitao
Randall "Tex" Cobb
as Kosnic
Jack Poggi
as Mac
Hamadi Izzard
as Tenement Kid
Damien Leake
as Tenement Man
Frank Patton III
as Jarryd Guard #1
Crew
Director
- Lewis Teague
Writer
- Frank Darius Namei
- Robert Resnikoff
Producer
- Robert W. Cort
- Ted Field
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action/Comedy/Crime film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Collision Course distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Lewis Teague 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 1989, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Collision Course took approximately 6 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $13.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 100 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 159 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 5 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1989, when this film was released:
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Collision Course shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Fulltime Killer, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Collision Course subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Red Heat and Tango & Cash explore similar territory, Collision Course 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: April 27, 1989
- Runtime: 1h 40m
- Budget: $13,000,000
Where to Watch
