Cast
View All
Jeff Speakman
as Jeff Sanders
John Dye
as Det. Adam Sanders
Mako
as Kim
James Hong
as Yung
Mariska Hargitay
as Jennifer
Dante Basco
as Jimmy Ho
Beau Starr
as Capt. Carl Sanders
Seth Sakai
as Master Lo
Professor Toru Tanaka
as Tanaka
Clyde Kusatsu
as Detective Wong
Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa
as Kai
Craig Ng
as Ponytail
John Koyama
as Porsche
Roger Yuan
as Diamond
Shaun Shimoda
as Kwong
Crew
Director
- Mark DiSalle
Writer
- David C. Wilson
Producer
- Pierre David
- Mark DiSalle
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Perfect Weapon 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 Mark DiSalle 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 1991, 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 The Perfect Weapon took approximately 27 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $10.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 85 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 129 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1991, when this film was released:
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: March 15, 1991
- Runtime: 1h 25m
- Budget: $10,000,000
- Revenue: $14,061,361