Cast
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Dennis Hopper
as Det. Ed DeLongpre
Leslie Hope
as Leslie DeLongpre
Frederic Forrest
as Michael McGivern
Tom McCamus
as Johnny Gault
David Dunbar
as Milo Spivak
Elizabeth Shepherd
as Mayor Hackett
Chuck Shamata
as Capt. Neiman
Kim Huffman
as Mrs. Osterman
Tom Harvey
as Paddy Flynn
Rob Stefaniuk
as Syphon
Yvan Labelle
as Carp
Sean O'Hara
as Flannery Pincher
Timothy Burd
as Stubby Styles
Amanda Soha
as Crystal Osterman
Janet Bailey
as Detective Langston
Crew
Director
- Derek Vanlint
Producer
- Ken Nakamura
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Spreading Ground examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Derek Vanlint 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 2000, 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 Spreading Ground took approximately 8 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 100 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 146 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 1312 individual shots.
- The musical score contains over 55 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2000, when this film is released:
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Spreading Ground 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 Contract, which focuses more on action than character development, Spreading Ground subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Clean, Shaven and Singapore Sling explore similar territory, Spreading Ground 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: February 25, 2000
- Runtime: 1h 40m
