Cast
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Mickey Rourke
as Johnny Walker
Christopher Walken
as Wesley Pendergass
Jon Polito
as Moe Fingers
Debra Feuer
as Ruby
Antony Alda
as Ray
Thomas Quinn
as Lou
Kevin Conway
as Grazziano
Rubén Blades
as Doctor
Willy DeVille
as Moe's bodyguard
Michael Buffer
as Ring Announcer
Joseph Ragno
as Cotten's Trainer
Stephen Baldwin
as Luna Park Drunk
Cordelia González
as Cuban Boxer's Wife
Crew
Director
- Michael Seresin
Producer
- Alan Marshall
- Elliott Kastner
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Homeboy 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 Michael Seresin 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 1988, 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 Homeboy took approximately 36 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 116 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 172 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
- The screenplay went through 8 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1988, when this film was released:
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Homeboy shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Hard Times, which focuses more on action than character development, Homeboy offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Fight Rules and Ali explore similar territory, Homeboy 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: August 24, 1988
- Runtime: 1h 56m
Where to Watch
