Cast
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Keanu Reeves
as Detective Tom Ludlow
Forest Whitaker
as Captain Jack Wander
Chris Evans
as Detective Paul Diskant
Hugh Laurie
as Captain James Biggs
Naomie Harris
as Linda Washington
Cedric the Entertainer
as Scribble
Martha Higareda
as Grace Garcia
Common
as Coates
Angela Sun
as Julie Fukashima
Jay Mohr
as Sgt. Mike Clady
Amaury Nolasco
as Detective Cosmo Santos
John Corbett
as Detective Dante Demille
Terry Crews
as Detective Terrence Washington
Cle Sloan
as Fremont
Game
as Grill
Crew
Director
- David Ayer
Producer
- Erwin Stoff
- Lucas Foster
- Alexandra Milchan
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Street Kings 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 David Ayer 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 Street Kings took approximately 29 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $20.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 109 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 137 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
- The screenplay went through 9 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The costume department created over 364 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 2008, when this film is released:
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Street Kings shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Pulp Fiction, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Street Kings subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Diamonds Are Forever and The Spy Who Loved Me explore similar territory, Street Kings stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: April 10, 2008
- Runtime: 1h 49m
- Budget: $20,000,000
- Revenue: $66,476,363
Where to Watch
