Cast
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Dennis Hopper
as Huey Walker
Kiefer Sutherland
as John Buckner
Carol Kane
as Maggie
Paul Dooley
as Stark
Cliff DeYoung
as Sheriff Rand Hightower
Richard Masur
as Barry
Michael McKean
as Hal Cresciman
Kathleen York
as Sparkle
Tom O'Brien
as Phil Prager
Eric Lorentz
as Prison Guard
Jan Van Sickle
as Prison Guard
Jack Casperson
as Man in Dining Car
Dwayne Carrington
as Waiter in Dining Car
David Underwood
as Deputy
Bobby Price
as Deputy
Crew
Director
- Franco Amurri
Writer
- David Loughery
Producer
- Marvin Worth
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action/Comedy/Crime film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Flashback distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Franco Amurri 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1990, 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 Flashback took approximately 27 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 108 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 149 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1990, when this film was released:
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Flashback shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Four Weddings and a Funeral, which focuses more on action than character development, Flashback subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Together and Train Birds explore similar territory, Flashback 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: February 2, 1990
- Runtime: 1h 48m
- Revenue: $6,488,144
