Cast
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Brian Austin Green
as Callan
Danny Trejo
as Lexavier
Michael Clarke Duncan
as Erlik
Tom Sizemore
as Detective Frank Nitti
Vinnie Jones
as Gunnar
Rachel Miner
as Poison
Jake Busey
as Backfire
Robert Carradine
as Dr. Zyal
C. Thomas Howell
as Jake
Samantha Mumba
as Ishka
Susie Abromeit
as Sunshine
William Zabka
as Saw
Tim Abell
as Riot
Lori Heuring
as Lucia
Gianni Capaldi
as English
Crew
Director
- Patrick Durham
Writer
- Jonathan Sachar
- Tanner Wiley
- Patrick Durham
Producer
- Matthew R. Anderson
- Tim Abell
- Brian Austin Green
- Jonathan Sachar
- Jake Busey
- Patrick Durham
- Jon Barton
- Judy Dinella
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action/Fantasy film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Cross distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Patrick Durham 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 2011, 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 Cross took approximately 33 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $2.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 105 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 154 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 40 unique compositions.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 2011, 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 Cross shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Beverly Hills Cop, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Cross subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Beverly Hills Cop II and Gleaming the Cube explore similar territory, Cross 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: May 21, 2011
- Runtime: 1h 45m
- Budget: $2,000,000
Where to Watch
