Cast
View AllMark Mitchinson
as Jan Molenaar
Darren Young
as Len Snee
Jon Cummings
as Lenny Holmwood
Joel Tobeck
as Sam Hoyle
Miriama Smith
as Delwyn Keefe
Alistair Browning
as Mike O'Leary
Toby Leach
as Grant Diver
Will Hall
as Bruce Miller
Kirk Torrance
as Heath Jones
Mark Warren
as Brad Clark
Peter Feeney
as Paul Symonds
Nathalie Boltt
as Vicki Snee
Laurie Dee
as Kevin Kalff
Jason Whyte
as Ryan Wood
Andrew Robertt
as Mike Burne
Crew
Director
- Mike Smith
Writer
- John Banas
Producer
- Riccardo Pellizzeri
- Bridget Bourke
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Siege examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Mike Smith 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 character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2012, 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 Siege took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 87 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 136 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The musical score contains over 62 unique compositions.
- The film contains approximately 838 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 2012, when this film is released:
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Siege shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Carry Me Back, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Siege subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Out of the Blue and Māori explore similar territory, Siege 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: June 17, 2012
- Runtime: 1h 27m