Cast
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Ed O'Neill
as Popeye Doyle
Matthew Laurance
as Tony Parese
Candy Clark
as Corinne Evans
George De La Pena
as Itan Kellerman / The Shadow
Audrey Landers
as Jill Anneyard
James Handy
as Lieutenant Gregory Paulus
J.K. Simmons
as Patrolman in Park
Nicholas Kadi
as Auram Bardas / The Weasel
Elias Zarou
as Fahoud Nazzim
Gary Tacon
as Deli Bandit #1
Phil Neilson
as Deli Bandit #2
Elizabeth Lennie
as Toni
Peter Virgile
as Pretty Boy
Richard Monette
as Patrick Henley
S.J. Fellowes
as Nurse #1
Crew
Director
- Peter Levin
Writer
- Richard Di Lello
Producer
- Richard Di Lello
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Popeye Doyle represents a fascinating example of Thriller/TV Movie/Crime 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 Peter Levin 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 1986, 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 Popeye Doyle took approximately 25 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 97 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 132 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 123 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The film contains approximately 1606 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1986, when this film was released:
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Popeye Doyle shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Dancer in the Dark, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Popeye Doyle offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Sand Trap and Corps et âmes explore similar territory, Popeye Doyle 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, 1986
- Runtime: 1h 37m
