Cast
View AllCrew
Director
- Peter Markham
Writer
- Peter Ransley
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This Drama/Horror/TV Movie film explores themes of fear and survival, delving into the psychological aspects of human nature when confronted with the unknown. The Cormorant presents a unique perspective on the horror genre by focusing on the psychological terror rather than relying on typical jump scares.
Director Peter Markham 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 1993, 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 The Cormorant took approximately 11 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 88 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 117 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 6 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
- The costume department created over 369 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1993, when this film was released:
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- 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 The Cormorant shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Kamome Diner, which focuses more on action than character development, The Cormorant offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like A Place in the Sun and The Friends of Eddie Coyle explore similar territory, The Cormorant 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: February 21, 1993
- Runtime: 1h 28m