Cast
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Brendan Fletcher
as Des
Myles Ferguson
as Cory
Adam Harrison
as House
Jordan Clarke
as Sam
London Sam Baergen
as Jamal
John Nguyen
as Nick
Loc Vo
as Tak
Mimi Kuzyk
as Rita
Randy Hughson
as Vince
Jed Rees
as Chet
Sabrina Grdevich
as Ruth
Dwight McFee
as Clarke
Callum Keith Rennie
as Kostash (as Callum Rennie)
Sonia Norris
as Judy
Keely Purvis
as Nonny
Crew
Director
- Stephen Surjik
Writer
- Dennis Foon
Producer
- Barbara Kelly
- Phil Savath
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Little Criminals examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Stephen Surjik 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 1995, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Little Criminals took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 91 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 132 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 31 unique compositions.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1995, when this film was released:
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Little Criminals shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Freeway, which focuses more on action than character development, Little Criminals offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Kids and Class of 1984 explore similar territory, Little Criminals 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: January 1, 1995
- Runtime: 1h 31m
