Cast
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Don Michael Paul
as Joey Rosso
Lawrence Dane
as Big Joe Rosso
Ned Beatty
as Tiny Doyle
Lisa Howard
as Misty
Todd Duckworth
as Vic Doyle
Michael J. Reynolds
as Lt. Sly Sullivan
Michael Dyson
as Moon Man
Hugo Dann
as Hairlip
Lawrence King-Phillips
as Finger
A.C. Peterson
as Four Eyes
Barclay Hope
as Steve Tyler
Susan Hogan
as Kathy Rosso
Alyson Court
as Allison Rosso
Marsha Moreau
as Kristin Rosso
Meg Hogarth
as Mrs. Cooper
Crew
Director
- Steven Hilliard Stern
Writer
- Michael Thomas Montgomery
Producer
- Steven Hilliard Stern
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Rolling Vengeance 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 Steven Hilliard Stern 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 1987, 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 Rolling Vengeance took approximately 28 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 92 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 141 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1987, when this film was released:
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Rolling Vengeance shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Dancer in the Dark, which focuses more on action than character development, Rolling Vengeance offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Big Black Sow and Sand Trap explore similar territory, Rolling Vengeance 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: October 2, 1987
- Runtime: 1h 32m
