Cast
View All
David Hasselhoff
as Michael Knight
Edward Mulhare
as Devon Miles
Patricia McPherson
as Bonnie Barstow
Phyllis Davis
as Tanya Walker
Pamela Susan Shoop
as Maggie
Barret Oliver
as Buddy
Michael D. Roberts
as Jackson
Bert Rosario
as Brown
Lance LeGault
as Vernon Gray
Noel Conlon
as William Benjamin
Richard Anderson
as Ralph Wesley
Vince Edwards
as Fred Wilson
Richard Basehart
as Wilton Knight
Ed Gilbert
as Charles Acton
Shawn Southwick
as Lonnie
Crew
Director
- Daniel Haller
Writer
- Glen A. Larson
Producer
- Harker Wade
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action/Science Fiction/TV Movie film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Knight Rider: Knight of the Phoenix distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Daniel Haller 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 1982, 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 Knight Rider: Knight of the Phoenix took approximately 29 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 90 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 122 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2030 individual shots.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 6 months to complete.
- The costume department created over 400 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1982, when this film was released:
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Knight Rider: Knight of the Phoenix shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Carrie, which focuses more on action than character development, Knight Rider: Knight of the Phoenix subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Starsky & Hutch and The Rookies explore similar territory, Knight Rider: Knight of the Phoenix stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: September 26, 1982
- Runtime: 1h 30m
