Cast
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Mark-Paul Gosselaar
as Tim Maroon
Mercedes McNab
as Echo Olvera
Nick von Esmarch
as David 'Rut' Rutledge
J.P. Manoux
as Neal Blank
Gabriel Pimentel
as Greenie The Alien
Byron Lucas
as Crash
Jeremy Radick
as Cosmo
Giacomo Baessato
as Flap Snellberg
Lauren K. Robek
as Dove
Mark Brandon
as Mitch McKaye
Beverley Elliott
as Mrs. Snellberg
Sarah Hayward
as Irate Video Customer
Amy Esterle
as Vixella / Chasey Pips
Crew
Director
- Joshua Butler
Writer
- Rich Wilkes
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a science fiction narrative, Beer Money explores potential technological and societal futures, raising important questions about humanity's place in the universe and our evolutionary trajectory. The film stands apart from other sci-fi works by presenting a vision that is both thought-provoking and visually distinctive.
Director Joshua Butler 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 2001, 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 Beer Money took approximately 11 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 89 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 135 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 2001, when this film is released:
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Beer Money shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Alien Implant, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Beer Money offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Chicken Little and Beerfest explore similar territory, Beer Money 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: June 19, 2001
- Runtime: 1h 29m
