Cast
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Crew
Director
- David R. Ellis
Writer
- Ethan Lawrence
Producer
- Ashok Amritraj
- Jessika Borsiczky
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This Horror film explores themes of fear and survival, delving into the psychological aspects of human nature when confronted with the unknown. Asylum presents a unique perspective on the horror genre by focusing on the psychological terror rather than relying on typical jump scares.
Director David R. Ellis 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 Asylum took approximately 23 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 93 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 132 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 58 unique compositions.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 2008, when this film is released:
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Asylum shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike A Stranger Is Watching, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Asylum subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Birds and Frenzy explore similar territory, Asylum 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: March 20, 2008
- Runtime: 1h 33m
- Budget: $22,000,000
Where to Watch
