Cast
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Jeremy Renner
as Staff Sergeant William James
Anthony Mackie
as Sergeant JT Sanborn
Brian Geraghty
as Specialist Owen Eldridge
David Morse
as Colonel Reed
Guy Pearce
as Sergeant Matt Thompson
Evangeline Lilly
as Connie James
Ralph Fiennes
as Contractor Team Leader
Christian Camargo
as Colonel John Cambridge
Christopher Sayegh
as Beckham
David Gueriera
as First Sergeant
Nabil Koni
as Professor Nabil
Sam Spruell
as Contractor Charlie
Sam Redford
as Contractor Jimmy
Erin Gann
as Mortuary Affairs Officer
Malcolm Barrett
as Sergeant Foster
Crew
Director
- Kathryn Bigelow
Producer
- Nicolas Chartier
- Jenn Lee
- Mark Boal
- Greg Shapiro
- Kathryn Bigelow
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Hurt Locker 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 Kathryn Bigelow 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 2008, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Hurt Locker took approximately 29 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $15.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 131 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 166 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 6 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 1607 individual shots.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 2008, when this film is released:
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Hurt Locker shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Cut Off, which focuses more on action than character development, The Hurt Locker offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Rage: Carrie 2 and Julia explore similar territory, The Hurt Locker stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: October 10, 2008
- Runtime: 2h 11m
- Budget: $15,000,000
- Revenue: $49,259,766
Where to Watch
