Cast
View AllCrew
Director
- Bobby McCreed
Writer
- C.D. Page
Producer
- Chris Sandel
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Krystal Balling represents a fascinating example of Fantasy 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 Bobby McCreed 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 1988, 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 Krystal Balling took approximately 21 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 68 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 97 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1432 individual shots.
- The costume department created over 390 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1988, when this film was released:
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- 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 Krystal Balling shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Making Contact, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Krystal Balling subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Hellboy and A Certain Magical Index: The Miracle of Endymion Special explore similar territory, Krystal Balling 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, 1988
- Runtime: 1h 8m