Cast
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Barry Corbin
as Burt Hamilton
Jeannetta Arnette
as Nicki Felch
Stephen Macht
as Joe Stiley
Richard Masur
as Roger Olian
Dinah Manoff
as Priscilla Tirado
Donnelly Rhodes
as Arland Williams
Jamie Rose
as Marilyn Nichols
Richard Beauchamp
as Jose Tirado
K Callan
as Barbara Hamilton
Jane Kaczmarek
as Donna Olian
Kerrie Keane
as Carole Biggs
Ken Olin
as David Frank
James Whitmore Jr.
as Captain Larry Wheaton
Tony Abatemarco
as Dishevelled Man
Richard Backus
as Larry Nichols
Crew
Director
- Robert Michael Lewis
Writer
- John McGreevey
Producer
- Bill Finnegan
- Patricia Finnegan
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Flight 90: Disaster on the Potomac 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 Robert Michael Lewis 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 1984, 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 Flight 90: Disaster on the Potomac took approximately 3 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 120 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 167 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2464 individual shots.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The costume department created over 351 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1984, when this film was released:
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Flight 90: Disaster on the Potomac shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Mothman Prophecies, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Flight 90: Disaster on the Potomac subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Tracing the Gray Summer and Executive Decision explore similar territory, Flight 90: Disaster on the Potomac stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: April 1, 1984
- Runtime: 2h
