Cast
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Keith Carradine
as Capt. Eugene T. Slader
Judge Reinhold
as Ryan West
Alfre Woodard
as Tamara O'Neil
Philip Casnoff
as Nick Van Pelt
Rosalind Chao
as Dr. Lin Yo Yu
Elizabeth Wilson
as President Elizabeth Richardson
Michael Murphy
as Dean Rumplemeyer
Richard Schiff
as Eric Altman
Diane Venora
as Lt. Tanya Sadavoy
Richard Young
as Astronaut Charles Downing
Michael Chinyamurindi
as
Christine Estabrook
as Amanda Whitney
Maria Mayenzet
as
Dean Jones
as Dr. Scott Berlin
Gibby Brand
as White House Correspondent
Crew
Director
- Robert Mandel
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Special Report: Journey to Mars 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 Robert Mandel 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 1996, 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 Special Report: Journey to Mars took approximately 10 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 120 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 152 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The screenplay went through 10 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1996, 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
Details
- Release Date: March 25, 1996
- Runtime: 2h