Cast
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Melanie Griffith
as Emily Eden
Eric Thal
as Ariel
John Pankow
as Levine
Tracy Pollan
as Mara
Lee Richardson
as Rebbe
Mia Sara
as Leah
Jamey Sheridan
as Nick
Jake Weber
as Yaakov
Ro'ee Levi
as Mendel
David Rosenbaum
as Mr. Klausman
Ruth Vool
as Mrs. Klausman
David Margulies
as Lt. Oliver
Edward Rogers III
as Detective Tedford
Maurice Schell
as Detective Marden
James Gandolfini
as Tony Baldessari
Crew
Director
- Sidney Lumet
Writer
- Robert J. Avrech
Producer
- Sigurjón Sighvatsson
- Howard Rosenman
- Steve Golin
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
A Stranger Among Us represents a fascinating example of Crime/Mystery/Thriller 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 Sidney Lumet 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 1992, 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 A Stranger Among Us took approximately 23 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 110 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 139 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1132 individual shots.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 71 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1992, when this film was released:
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While A Stranger Among Us shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Dancer in the Dark, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, A Stranger Among Us offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Dark and Swarna Kaduva explore similar territory, A Stranger Among Us stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: July 17, 1992
- Runtime: 1h 50m
- Revenue: $2,960,000
