Cast
View AllBeau Knapp
as Martin
Alexis Bledel
as Katie
Luke Hemsworth
as Caleb
Kurt Russell
as Martin Sr.
Jeremie Harris
as Earl
Jill Hennessy
as Robin
Vincent Kartheiser
as Ted
Malaya Rivera Drew
as Penelope
Marsha Dietlein
as Janice
John D. Hickman
as Bill
Zac Adams
as Drew
Cat Alter
as Amy
Annalé
as Cindy
Sean Cullen
as Bernard
Jennifer Delora
as Karaoke Singer
Crew
Director
- John Stalberg Jr.
Writer
- David Frigerio
- Carlyle Eubank
Producer
- David Frigerio
- Jordan Beckerman
- Jordan Yale Levine
Reviews
JPV852
Decent enough thriller that is a bit too slow in some places and a couple of scenes don't make much sense. The acting was alright, liked seeing Alexis Bledel in, well, anything and Kurt Russell brings some weight even in his small role. I'd say it's worthy of a rental.
Aug 28, 2019
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Crypto 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 John Stalberg Jr. 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 2019, 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 Crypto took approximately 33 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 130 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The costume department created over 421 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 2019, when this film is released:
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Crypto shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike State and Main, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Crypto offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Capitalism: A Love Story and Gosford Park explore similar territory, Crypto 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 12, 2019
- Runtime: 1h 45m
- Revenue: $20,440
Where to Watch

