Cast
View All
Damon Wayans
as Maj. Benson Payne
Karyn Parsons
as Emily Walburn
William Hickey
as Dr. Phillips
Michael Ironside
as Lt. Col. Stone
Albert Hall
as Gen. Decker
Orlando Brown
as Cadet Kevin 'Tiger' Dunne
Steven Martini
as Cadet Alex Stone
Andrew Leeds
as Cadet Dotson
Chris Owen
as Cadet Wuliger
Joseph Blaire
as Cadet Bryan
Mark W. Madison
as Cadet Fox
Peyton Chesson-Fohl
as Cadet Sgt. Johnson
Stephen Coleman
as Cadet Leland
Mark Conway
as Police Sergeant
David DeHart
as Wellington Cadet Captain
Crew
Director
- Nick Castle
Producer
- Eric L. Gold
- Michael I. Rachmil
Reviews
Andre Gonzales
Awesome awesome movie! One of my favorites growing up. Damon Waynes is a hard ass to some teens training them for the military games. One of the funniest movies I've ever seen.
Jul 13, 2023
Thematic Analysis
Major Payne represents a fascinating example of Adventure/Comedy/Family cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Nick Castle 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 1995, 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 Major Payne took approximately 12 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 95 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 128 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 8 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The musical score contains over 77 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1995, when this film was released:
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Major Payne shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike All Over the Town, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Major Payne subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Sgt. Bilko and Buffalo Soldiers explore similar territory, Major Payne 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: March 24, 1995
- Runtime: 1h 35m
- Revenue: $30,112,050
Where to Watch
