Cast
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Patrick Swayze
as Jason Monk
Patrick Bergin
as Igor Komarov
Michael York
as Sir Nigel Irvine
Annika Peterson
as Sonia Astrova
Ben Cross
as Anatoly Grishin
Jeff Fahey
as Harvey Blackledge
Joss Ackland
as General Nikolayev
Tom Wlaschiha
as Mercedes Driver
Steve Speirs
as Viktor Akopov (as Steven Speirs)
Niko Nicotera
as Andrei Kasanov
Valentin Ganev
as Vladimir Tonkin
Barry Morse
as Josef Cherkassov
Jay Benedict
as Carey Jordan
Theodor Danetti
as Leonid Zaitsev
Marta Kondova
as Elena
Crew
Director
- Charles Martin Smith
Writer
- Adam Armus
- Nora Kay Foster
Producer
- Brian Gordon
- Patrick Peach
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Icon 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 Charles Martin Smith 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 2005, 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 Icon took approximately 5 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 166 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 223 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1996 individual shots.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 2005, when this film is released:
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Icon shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike People in the Summer Night, which focuses more on action than character development, Icon offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Smilla's Sense of Snow and Nineteen Eighty-Four explore similar territory, Icon 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: January 1, 2005
- Runtime: 2h 46m
Where to Watch
