Cast
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Gregory Smith
as Mikey Dennehy
Madeleine Potter
as Morgan / Nula
Godfrey James
as King Kevin
John Bluthal
as Michael Dennehy
Tina Martin
as Maeve, Queen of the Fairies
James Ellis
as Patrick
Sylvester McCoy
as Flynn
Ion Haiduc
as Wizard
Mike Higgins
as Casey
Carina Rosanna Tautu
as Fairy
Dana Zarescu
as Fairy
Pavel Ana Maria
as Fairy
Mihai Silvia
as Fairy
Galani Nicoleta
as Fairy
Dan Condurache
as Leprechaun
Crew
Director
- Ted Nicolaou
Writer
- Patrick J. Clifton
- Ted Nicolaou
Producer
- Vlad Păunescu
- Oana Păunescu
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Spellbreaker: Secret of the Leprechauns represents a fascinating example of Family/Fantasy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Ted Nicolaou 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 1996, 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 Spellbreaker: Secret of the Leprechauns took approximately 5 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 85 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 130 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 924 individual shots.
- The costume department created over 291 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1996, when this film was released:
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Spellbreaker: Secret of the Leprechauns shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Bewitched, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Spellbreaker: Secret of the Leprechauns subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Balala the Fairies: The Magic Trial and The Last Unicorn explore similar territory, Spellbreaker: Secret of the Leprechauns stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: October 19, 1996
- Runtime: 1h 25m
