Cast
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Ryan Reynolds
as Richard Messner
Andy García
as Stanley Locke
Martin Henderson
as Hollis Elmore
Chris Pine
as Darwin Tremor
Ray Liotta
as Donald Carruthers
Alicia Keys
as Georgia Sykes
Common
as Sir Ivy
Taraji P. Henson
as Sharice Watters
Davenia McFadden
as Loretta Wyman
Jeremy Piven
as Buddy Israel
Ben Affleck
as Jack Dupree
Peter Berg
as "Pistol" Pete Deeks
Matthew Fox
as Bill
Jason Bateman
as Rupert 'Rip' Reed
Nestor Carbonell
as Pasquale Acosta "S.A. Gerald Diego"
Crew
Director
- Joe Carnahan
Writer
- Joe Carnahan
Producer
- Tim Bevan
- Eric Fellner
Reviews
Gimly
I don't think I can tell you that _Smokin' Aces_ is **good**. But I have seen the movie on three seperate occasions in the past thirteen years, roughly evenly spread apart. And each time I have not only enjoyed it, I enjoyed it more than the last time. This movie is **very** dumb. But fast and fun and oh boy what a cast.
_Final rating:★★★½ - I really liked it. Would strongly recommend you give it your time._
Aug 25, 2019
JPV852
Sometimes wild, sometimes confusing action-thriller that boasts a great cast, but in the end, this wasn't a Carnahan movie that really did it for me. **2.75/5**
Apr 19, 2020
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action/Comedy/Crime/Thriller film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Smokin' Aces distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Joe Carnahan 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 2006, 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 Smokin' Aces took approximately 36 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $17.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 109 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 168 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 1611 individual shots.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 2006, when this film is released:
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Smokin' Aces shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Alpha Dog, which focuses more on action than character development, Smokin' Aces subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Vantage Point and Shooter explore similar territory, Smokin' Aces stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: December 9, 2006
- Runtime: 1h 49m
- Budget: $17,000,000
- Revenue: $57,103,895
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