Cast
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Martin Lawrence
as Kevin Caffery
Danny DeVito
as Max Fairbanks
John Leguizamo
as Berger
Glenne Headly
as Gloria Sidell
Carmen Ejogo
as Amber Belhaven
Bernie Mac
as Uncle Jack
Larry Miller
as Earl Radburn
Nora Dunn
as Lutetia Fairbanks
William Fichtner
as Detective Alex Tardio
Richard Schiff
as Walter Greenbaum
Ana Gasteyer
as Ann Marie
Sascha Knopf
as Tracey Kimberly
Siobhan Fallon Hogan
as Edwina
Cam Neely
as Jerry
Lenny Clarke
as Windham
Crew
Director
- Sam Weisman
Producer
- Lawrence Turman
- David Hoberman
- Ashok Amritraj
- Wendy Dytman
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action/Comedy/Crime film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, What's the Worst That Could Happen? distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Sam Weisman 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 2001, 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 What's the Worst That Could Happen? took approximately 28 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $60.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 94 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 126 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The screenplay went through 9 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 2001, when this film is released:
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While What's the Worst That Could Happen? shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Conan the Destroyer, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, What's the Worst That Could Happen? subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Italian Job and Sparrow explore similar territory, What's the Worst That Could Happen? 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: May 31, 2001
- Runtime: 1h 34m
- Budget: $60,000,000
- Revenue: $38,400,000
