Cast
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Starr Wood
as Cindy
Lysa Thatcher
as Suzie
Sharon Kane
as Hostess
Michael Morrison
as Walter
Leslie Laine
as Victoria
Cantara Christopher
as Lily
Larry Davis
as Dork (as Jerry Bilt)
Jeffrey Coffin
as
Herschel Savage
as Party Guest (uncredited)
Molly Seagrim
as Party Guest in Hot Tub (uncredited)
John Seeman
as Party Guest in Hot Tub (uncredited)
Zachary Strong
as Party Guest in Hat (uncredited)
Jerry Abrams
as Conga Player (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Zachary Strong
Writer
- Zachary Strong
- Logan Quade
- Nick Gillette
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a science fiction narrative, Playthings explores potential technological and societal futures, raising important questions about humanity's place in the universe and our evolutionary trajectory. The film stands apart from other sci-fi works by presenting a vision that is both thought-provoking and visually distinctive.
Director Zachary Strong 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 1979, 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 Playthings took approximately 28 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 65 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 105 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
- The costume department created over 184 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1979, when this film was released:
- The Watergate scandal changed public perception of political institutions.
- Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: September 20, 1979
- Runtime: 1h 5m