Cast
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Derek Luke
as 2nd Staff Sergeant Aubrey Stamps
Michael Ealy
as Sergeant Bishop Cummings
Laz Alonso
as Corporal Hector Negron
Omar Benson Miller
as Private First Class Sam Train
Pierfrancesco Favino
as Peppi 'The Great Butterfly' Grotta
Valentina Cervi
as Renata
Matteo Sciabordi
as Angelo Torancelli (The Boy)
John Turturro
as Detective Antonio Ri
Joseph Gordon-Levitt
as Tim Boyle
John Leguizamo
as Enrico
Kerry Washington
as Zana Wilder
D. B. Sweeney
as Colonel Driscoll
Robert John Burke
as General Ned Almond
Omari Hardwick
as Platoon Commander Huggs
Omero Antonutti
as Ludovico
Crew
Director
- Spike Lee
Writer
- James McBride
Producer
- Roberto Cicutto
- Spike Lee
- Luigi Musini
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Miracle at St. Anna 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 Spike Lee 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 reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Miracle at St. Anna took approximately 29 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $45.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 160 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 211 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1232 individual shots.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
- The musical score contains over 73 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2008, when this film is released:
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Miracle at St. Anna shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike No End, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Miracle at St. Anna offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like All Quiet on the Western Front and Wake Me When the War Is Over explore similar territory, Miracle at St. Anna 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: September 15, 2008
- Runtime: 2h 40m
- Budget: $45,000,000
- Revenue: $9,323,833
