Cast
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Tom Nardini
as Horatio
Brenda Bazinet
as Barbara
Daryl Haney
as Chester
Terry-David Després
as Daniel
Jack Blum
as Patrick
Keith Knight
as Steve
Doug Lennox
as Cabe
Jeff Pustil
as Goose
Fred Wadden
as Ian
Gary Dempster
as Lloyd
Dennis O'Connor
as Clark
Richard Collins
as Rosie
Ted Germaine
as Andre
Beth Lachance
as Goose's Wife
Alison Outhit
as Punk
Crew
Director
- Paul Donovan
- Maura O'Connell
Producer
- John Walsch
- Paul Donovan
- Maura O'Connell
- Michael Donovan
Reviews
GrindhouseDJ70
Overlooked classic grindhouse thriller...
I first rented this out under the title Siege back in the 80s. This film needs an official release desperately. Cannot believe that it hasn't been done already. Siege motors along at a fast pace, no lulls, just scene upon scene of intense cat and mouse between a gang of murderous thugs and a group of people (in what looks like the most rundown n scuzziest building ever) who take in a survivor from the gangs previous assault. Shade of Carpenter's Assault on Precinct 13 and a cheeky wink towards Escape From New York, the gang take on more than they bargain for when the ever resourceful victims strike back. Solid acting all round and a sucker punch of a twist at the end. This is a must see..! Classic grindhouse..!
Trivia: The Japanese cut of the film has a further 7 minutes of 'daytime' footage which has never been released outside of Japan.
Apr 17, 2018
Chandler Danier
This movie is really cool. It's a gem you'd find on CBC late night when they'd sometimes show boobs in German incest movies.
The sounds, siege, cars, unique city, costumes, 80s gay scare and wacky characters with technofuturetechnology make this a must see if you're into that stuff. If you want precise tactics, believable outcomes and a tight film, go away. You're not welcome to Self Defense/Siege.
Mar 7, 2025
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Thriller/Action/Crime film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Siege distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Paul Donovan 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 1983, 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 Siege took approximately 33 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 84 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 112 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
- The costume department created over 200 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 1983, when this film was released:
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Siege shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Minority Report, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Siege subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Good German and Lucky Number Slevin explore similar territory, Siege 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: June 10, 1983
- Runtime: 1h 24m
Where to Watch
