Cast
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Steve Schirripa
as Frank
Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor
as Nadia
Nick Sandow
as Gus
Sharon Angela
as Sharon
Emory Cohen
as Matthew
Zohra Lampert
as Ruth
Jim Hendricks
as Ansel
Sanjit De Silva
as Mohammed
Joe Caniano
as Charlie
Jerry Grayson
as Jerry
Bess Rous
as Lisette
Paul Calderon
as Carl
Tina Benko
as Abby
Sondra James
as Lucy
Vincent Curatola
as Nicky Z
Crew
Director
- Michael Imperioli
Writer
- Michael Imperioli
Producer
- Howard Axel
- Victoria Imperioli
- Stefan C. Schaefer
- Diane Crespo
- Tina Thor
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Hungry Ghosts 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 Michael Imperioli 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 2009, 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 The Hungry Ghosts took approximately 36 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 105 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 165 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1736 individual shots.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
- The costume department created over 324 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 2009, when this film is released:
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Hungry Ghosts shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Carjack, which focuses more on action than character development, The Hungry Ghosts subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Human Nature and Once Were Warriors explore similar territory, The Hungry Ghosts 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 22, 2009
- Runtime: 1h 45m
