Cast
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Joe Mantegna
as Bob Signorelli
Peter Riegert
as Lt. Coop Cooper
Kelli Maroney
as Merie / Medith
Cameron Thor
as Curtis Lowell
Adam Ant
as Derek Fry
J.K. Simmons
as Herb Aames
Shannon Lawson
as Emily Jones
Kent Staines
as Jacob Knutson
Diana Reis
as Connie Taubenfeld
Eugene Clark
as Capt. McGuiness
Richard Sali
as Artie
Gary McMillan
as Gary Ritter
Dwight Bacquie
as Frank Narz
James Mainprize
as Dr. Pilch
Steve Cumyn
as Charles
Crew
Director
- Thom Eberhardt
Writer
- Thom Eberhardt
Producer
- Roni Weisberg
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Face Down examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Thom Eberhardt 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 1997, 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 Face Down took approximately 30 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 125 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1997, when this film was released:
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Face Down shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Appointment with Death, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Face Down offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Ace Ventura: Pet Detective and Smith explore similar territory, Face Down 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: November 15, 1997
- Runtime: 1h 37m
Where to Watch
