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12 Rounds

12 Rounds (2009)

Mar 19, 2009 1h 48m Action Thriller Crime

When New Orleans Police Detective Danny Fisher stops a brilliant thief from getting away with a multimillion-dollar heist, the thief's girlfriend is accidentally killed. After escaping from prison, the criminal mastermind enacts his revenge, taunting Danny with 12 rounds of near-impossible puzzles and tasks that he must somehow complete to save the life of the woman he loves.

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Directed by Renny Harlin

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Renny Harlin
Writer
  • Daniel Kunka
Producer
  • Mark Gordon
  • Michael Lake
  • Josh McLaughlin

Reviews

Dan_Tebasco
6/10

**I liked it better when it had Keanu Reeves, Sandra Bullock and Dennis Hopper in it**

Needless to say SPEED (1994) was definitely an inspiration for this movie, to the point that if they'd switch things around just a little bit it could have been a sequel to it.

And even though John Cena is better than he usually is in movies, he's just no Keanu (did I say that? Oh yes I did).

And Ashley Scott is definitely no Sandra Bullock and furthermore Aidan Gillen no Dennis Hopper.

That said, it's not terrible, SPEED (1994) to me is just one of the best blockbuster action movies of the 90's so the chance that it would match up to it would really be second to none.

Anyway back to this movie, it's okay fairly mindless popcorn entertainment, Renny Harlin is good when it comes to action-sequences and yet again he delivers on those aspects.

I'm usually not bothered to much over shaky cams but this movie contains a overabundance of that and occasionally you wish they would just use steady cam but what can you do? not much.

There's really not that much more to talk about the movie, it's not a bad movie we've just seen it before.

It's the best movie I've seen with John Cena at least, there is always that.

May 19, 2017

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Thematic Analysis

This high-octane Action/Thriller/Crime film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, 12 Rounds distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.

Director Renny Harlin 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 2009, 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 12 Rounds took approximately 13 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • With a budget of $22.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 108 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 151 minutes long.
  • The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
  • The costume department created over 466 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 2009, when this film is released:
  • Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
  • Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
  • Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.

How This Film Stands Out

While 12 Rounds shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Music Box, which focuses more on action than character development, 12 Rounds offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Martyrs and FearDotCom explore similar territory, 12 Rounds stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

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: March 19, 2009
  • Runtime: 1h 48m
  • Budget: $22,000,000
  • Revenue: $17,280,326

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