Cast
View All
Crew
Director
- John Peyser
Producer
- Fred Lemoine
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane War/Action/Adventure film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Massacre Harbor distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director John Peyser 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 1968, 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 Massacre Harbor took approximately 35 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 81 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 130 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2104 individual shots.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1968, when this film was released:
- The Vietnam War was becoming increasingly controversial.
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: August 17, 1968
- Runtime: 1h 21m