Cast
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Sam the Orangutan
as Dunston
Jason Alexander
as Robert Grant
Faye Dunaway
as Mrs. Dubrow
Rupert Everett
as Lord Rutledge
Graham Sack
as Brian Grant
Paul Reubens
as Buck LaFarge
Glenn Shadix
as Lionel Spalding
Nathan Davis
as Victor Dubrow
Jennifer Bassey
as Mrs. Dellacroce
Eric Lloyd
as Kyle Grant
Judith Scott
as Nancy
Bruce Beatty
as Murray
Danny Comden
as Norm
Steven Gilborn
as Artie
Lois de Banzie
as Mrs. Winthrop
Crew
Director
- Ken Kwapis
Writer
- John Hopkins
Producer
- Joe Wizan
- Todd Black
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Dunston Checks In represents a fascinating example of Family/Comedy/Adventure cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Ken Kwapis 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 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 Dunston Checks In took approximately 16 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $16.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 88 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 136 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 69 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1996, when this film was released:
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Dunston Checks In shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Because I Said So, which focuses more on action than character development, Dunston Checks In offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Houseboat and Love, Repeat explore similar territory, Dunston Checks In 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: January 12, 1996
- Runtime: 1h 28m
- Budget: $16,000,000
