Cast
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Pierce Brosnan
as Danny O'Neill
Ron Silver
as Frank Traveres
Ben Cross
as Mikhail Rashid
Lisa Eilbacher
as Terry O'Neill
Michael J. Shea
as Lemonade Clown
Tony Plana
as Al-Red
Al Waxman
as James Garvey
Brent Jennings
as Shane Rogers
Philip Baker Hall
as Senator Thyme
Michael St. Gerard
as Ben
Clement von Franckenstein
as Dr. Bernard
Ivan E. Roth
as Process Server
Selma Archerd
as Judge Blair
Rick Cicetti
as Bailiff
Norman Burton
as Senator Victor
Crew
Director
- Christian Duguay
Producer
- Suzanne Todd
- David Willis
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Live Wire 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 Christian Duguay 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 1992, 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 Live Wire took approximately 24 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $9.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 85 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 144 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 1846 individual shots.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1992, when this film was released:
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- 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 Live Wire shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Telefon, which focuses more on action than character development, Live Wire offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Rendition and Hannah and Her Sisters explore similar territory, Live Wire 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 3, 1992
- Runtime: 1h 25m
- Budget: $9,000,000
