Cast
View AllJohn Hannah
as Prof. Ian Holbourn
Kenneth Cranham
as Captain Turner
Florian Panzner
as Lt. Capt. Schwieger
Michael Feast
as Captain Hobbs
Graham Hopkins
as Staff Captain Anderson
Adrian Topol
as Vogele
Madeleine Garrood
as Avis Dolphin
Frances Marek
as Alice
Martin Le Maitre
as Winston Churchill
Kevin Otto
as Alfred Vanderbilt
Karen Haacke
as Dorothy Taylor
Dean McCoubrey
as Capt. Windridge
Andre Weideman
as Johnston
Ronald France
as Lord Mersey
Stephen Jennings
as Carson
Crew
Director
- Christopher Spencer
Writer
- Diana Preston
- Sarah Wallace
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Sinking of the Lusitania: Terror at Sea 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 Christopher Spencer 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 2007, 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 Sinking of the Lusitania: Terror at Sea took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 90 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 135 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
- The costume department created over 307 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 2007, when this film is released:
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Sinking of the Lusitania: Terror at Sea shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike My Own Private Idaho, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Sinking of the Lusitania: Terror at Sea subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Poseidon and The Promised Land explore similar territory, Sinking of the Lusitania: Terror at Sea 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: May 12, 2007
- Runtime: 1h 30m
Where to Watch

