Cast
View AllBick Smith
as Mayor King
Jennifer Prettyman
as Hippie
Jules Medcraft
as Tiffany Ann-Franklin
Rob Walstead
as Fence Supporter
Adrienne Thomas
as Zenya
Sam Heyn
as Ethan West
Sam Heyn
as Ethan West
Kaitlin Weber
as Councilwoman Anderson-Sanchez
Adam H. Ruben
as Councilman White
Andra Knox
as Zander
Logan Martin
as Fence Guy
Rob Andersen
as Priest
Meghan Knapp
as PTA Mom
Michelle Del
as Hippie
Tom Sorenson
as Red Hat Businessman
Crew
Director
- Justin Schaack
- Kristin Schaack
Writer
- Kristin Schaack
- Justin Schaack
- Logan Martin
Producer
- Justin Schaack
- David J. Bowler
- Kristin Schaack
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a science fiction narrative, Illegal Aliens explores potential technological and societal futures, raising important questions about humanity's place in the universe and our evolutionary trajectory. The film stands apart from other sci-fi works by presenting a vision that is both thought-provoking and visually distinctive.
Director Justin Schaack 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 2016, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Illegal Aliens took approximately 5 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 10 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 68 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
- The film contains approximately 1541 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 2016, when this film is released:
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Illegal Aliens shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Lolita, which focuses more on action than character development, Illegal Aliens offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Shrek and This Island Earth explore similar territory, Illegal Aliens 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 27, 2016
- Runtime: 10m
