Cast
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Scott Valentine
as Clark Sanford
Joan Severance
as Belle Washburn
Chris Mulkey
as Jamie Sanford
G.W. Bailey
as Dean Sutton
Andreas Katsulas
as Chambliss
Ray Wise
as Mark Gaston
France Nuyen
as Alexandra Cordier
Ray Stricklyn
as Prof. Jarman
Michael Blue
as 1st Policeman
Loren Janes
as 2nd Policeman
Shirley Prestia
as Police Matron
William Washington
as Treasury Agent
Crew
Director
- Ruben Preuss
Writer
- Miguel Tejada-Flores
Producer
- Ruben Preuss
- Bonnie Sugar
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Write to Kill examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Ruben Preuss 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 character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1991, 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 Write to Kill took approximately 34 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 99 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 140 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1433 individual shots.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
- The musical score contains over 48 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1991, 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 Write to Kill 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 Funeral, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Write to Kill subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Street Mobster and King of the Ants explore similar territory, Write to Kill 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: November 20, 1991
- Runtime: 1h 39m
Where to Watch
