Cast
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Will Patton
as Stephen Davis
Mark O'Brien
as Chris Davis
Ben Cotton
as Adams
Vickie Papavs
as Karen
Dayle McLeod
as Lori
Connor Price
as Jeremy
Lara Jean Chorostecki
as Debbie
Curtis Caravaggio
as Samson
Trish Rainone
as Border Guard
Jason Weinberg
as Wayne
Deidre Gillard-Rowlings
as Shirley
Stephen Lush
as Pat
Crew
Director
- Christian Sparkes
Producer
- Chris Agoston
- Jonathan Bronfman
- Allison White
- William Woods
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Hammer 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 Christian Sparkes 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 Hammer took approximately 8 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 82 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 138 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 40 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2019, when this film is released:
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- 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 Hammer shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Funeral, which focuses more on action than character development, Hammer subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Street Mobster and King of the Ants explore similar territory, Hammer 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: December 5, 2019
- Runtime: 1h 22m
Where to Watch
