Cast
View All
Steve Daron
as Rodney 'Lightning' Rhodes
Burt Reynolds
as Paddy Grier
Omar Brunson
as Reggie Hall
Cristina Figarola
as Jocelyn Hall
Michael Christopher Rodney
as Zeke 'Pick' Martin
Chase Victoria
as Mariah King
Shana Eva
as Vivian Gonzalez
Izzy Martinez
as Detective Martel Corona
Miguel Suarez
as Theo ' Brick' Martinez
Mitch Lemos
as Detective Chuck Grimes
Dyah Ali Davis
as Adult Reggie
Courtney Dlugos
as Adult Mariah
Christopher Green
as Sportscaster
Steve Mocco
as Thug
Todd Vittum
as Bunky
Crew
Director
- Alyn Darnay
Writer
- Alyn Darnay
- Lloyd S. Wagner
Producer
- Steve Daron
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Shadow Fighter 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 Alyn Darnay 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 2017, 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 Shadow Fighter took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 99 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 148 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
- The musical score contains over 79 unique compositions.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 2017, when this film is released:
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Shadow Fighter shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Million Dollar Baby, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Shadow Fighter subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like American History X and Taxi Driver explore similar territory, Shadow Fighter 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: November 19, 2017
- Runtime: 1h 39m
