Cast
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Gregory Harrison
as Carl Winters
Arkie Whiteley
as Sarah Cameron
Bill Kerr
as Jake Cullen
Chris Haywood
as Benny Baker
David Argue
as Dicko Baker
Judy Morris
as Beth Winters
John Howard
as Danny
John Ewart
as Turner
Don Smith
as Wallace
Mervyn Drake
as Andy
Redmond Phillips
as Magistrate
Alan Becher
as Counsel
Peter Schwarz
as Lawyer
Beth Child
as Louise Cullen
Rick Kennedy
as Farmer
Crew
Director
- Russell Mulcahy
Writer
- Everett De Roche
Producer
- Hal McElroy
Reviews
tmdb44054871
This film is perfect for those evenings when you just want to stay in, kick back with an ice-cold beverage, and watch a good old fashioned creature feature. Set in the outback and based on the novel by Peter Brennen. Razorback has been called Jaws on trotters by a few critics. It's your basic "eco horror film". Basically an enormous hog/wild boar is terrorizing a small outback town. Jake Cullen is accused of killing his grandson but the case is dropped due to lack of evidence. He now vows revenge. While this is going on an animal rights activist secretly films poachers making dog food from illegally killed kangaroos. She is confronted by the psychotic Baker Brothers. Beth, the activist, is later killed by the boar. You can see where this is leading. I won't reveal the ending. I want you to see it yourself. All in all it was fun and gory. There is an "unofficial" remake called "Boar". Looks promising. I must caution you. A dog is run over by The Baker Brothers. This will be upsetting to animal lovers..
Apr 10, 2020
Thematic Analysis
This Horror/Thriller film explores themes of fear and survival, delving into the psychological aspects of human nature when confronted with the unknown. Razorback presents a unique perspective on the horror genre by focusing on the psychological terror rather than relying on typical jump scares.
Director Russell Mulcahy 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 1984, 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 Razorback took approximately 11 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $5.5 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 95 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 141 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 72 unique compositions.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 5 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1984, when this film was released:
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Razorback shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Mona Lisa, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Razorback subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Breed and Blood and Chocolate explore similar territory, Razorback 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: April 19, 1984
- Runtime: 1h 35m
- Budget: $5,500,000
- Revenue: $801,000
