Cast
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Wings Hauser
as Ralph Baker
Bobby Di Cicco
as Mick J. August
Heather Fairfield
as Lee Ann Hadley
Frances Fisher
as Jo Westlake
Dick Sargent
as Will Curran
Robert Picardo
as Frank Govers
Lauren Woodland
as Sue Baker
Tom Hodges
as Don Curran
Jeff MacKay
as Bob Sprague
Adam Biesk
as David Farmer
Rich Stanley
as Fred Jenks
Roger Hewlett
as Merlin Wells
Ben Reed
as Rick McDonald
John C. Moskoff
as Paul Thompson
Robert Cornthwaite
as Earl Cott
Crew
Director
- Paul Leder
Writer
- Reuben Leder
Producer
- Vladek Juszkiewicz
- Paul Leder
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Frame Up 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 Paul Leder 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 Frame Up took approximately 28 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 93 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 117 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2498 individual shots.
- The musical score contains over 54 unique compositions.
- The screenplay went through 9 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1991, 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 Frame Up shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Bad Lucky Goat, which focuses more on action than character development, Frame Up subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Knockaround Guys and The Silent Ocean explore similar territory, Frame Up 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: June 27, 1991
- Runtime: 1h 33m
