Cast
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Ben Kingsley
as Fergus
Jim Sturgess
as Martin
Kevin Zegers
as Sean
Natalie Press
as Lara
Rose McGowan
as Grace
Tom Collins
as Mikey
William Houston
as Ray
Michael McElhatton
as Robbie
Laura Hughes
as Mary
Gerard Jordan
as Kieran
David Pearse
as Donovan
Joe Doyle
as Quinn
Conor MacNeill
as Frankie
Frankie McCafferty
as Paddy
Ali White
as Lara's Mother
Crew
Director
- Kari Skogland
Writer
- Kari Skogland
Producer
- Shawn Williamson
- Alice Clough
- Stephen Kaye
- Stephen Hegyes
- Peter La Terriere
- Kari Skogland
- Amanda Kenyon
- Jonathan Shore
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action/Thriller film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Fifty Dead Men Walking distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Kari Skogland 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 2008, 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 Fifty Dead Men Walking took approximately 17 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 117 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 166 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 film contains approximately 2055 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 2008, when this film is released:
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Fifty Dead Men Walking shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Headless Woman, which focuses more on action than character development, Fifty Dead Men Walking subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Pet Sematary and Dark Whispers - Volume 1 explore similar territory, Fifty Dead Men Walking stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: September 10, 2008
- Runtime: 1h 57m
Where to Watch
