Cast
View AllBrendan Pollecutt
as Dean
Fezile Mpela
as Thabo
Robert Finlayson
as Ram
Gina Borthwick
as Kama
Danielle Crouse
as Nina
Nkhensani Manganyi
as Briah
Wilson Dunster
as Ammon
Adrienne Pearce
as Kabeth
André Jacobs
as Morgan
Clive Scott
as Nerada
Victor Melleney
as Supreme Councillor Kuth
Owen Sejake
as Inquisitor Balik
Keith Grenville
as Professor Saunders
Nicky Rebelo
as Colonel Senek
David Dukas
as Julak
Crew
Director
- David Lister
Writer
- Lindsay du Plessis
Producer
- Tokkie Wehmeyer
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
The Lost City represents a fascinating example of TV Movie/Adventure 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 David Lister 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 1997, 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 The Lost City took approximately 35 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 92 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 147 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2441 individual shots.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1997, when this film was released:
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Lost City shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Tarzan's Jungle Rebellion, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Lost City subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like DAN DA DAN: First Encounter and Top Gear: Back in the Fast Lane explore similar territory, The Lost City 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: January 1, 1997
- Runtime: 1h 32m
