Cast
View AllGabrielle Anwar
as Kristen Halloran
Craig Sheffer
as Quinn Halloran / John Williams
Chace Crawford
as Matthew Halloran
Philip Granger
as Ronnie
Richard Blade
as Patrick
Dennis Garber
as Agent Bodden
Ian Robison
as Steve
Joshua Friesen
as Matthew (4 years old)
Michael McConnohie
as Harbor Master Bill
Holly Fulger
as Marge
Gwen Van Dam
as Travel Agent
Shirley Brown
as Older Passenger
Julius Noflin
as Immigration Officer
Terrance Rodgers
as Taxi Driver
Crew
Director
- Brian Trenchard-Smith
Producer
- Sylvia Hess
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Long Lost Son 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 Brian Trenchard-Smith 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 2006, 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 Long Lost Son took approximately 15 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $2.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 88 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 145 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The film contains approximately 2151 individual shots.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 2006, when this film is released:
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Long Lost Son shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Jarhead, which focuses more on action than character development, Long Lost Son subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Billy Elliot and Italian for Beginners explore similar territory, Long Lost Son 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 24, 2006
- Runtime: 1h 28m
- Budget: $2,000,000
Where to Watch

