Cast
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Paul Williams
as Rooster Steele
Pat McCormick
as Sweets McBride
J.D. Cannon
as Chief Willard T. Coburn
Ed Lauter
as Jack Claggert
Jill St. John
as Joanna Van Eegan
Kathrine Baumann
as Amy Hammond
Amy Botwinick
as B.B.
Robert Henry Bryant
as Fire Chief
Delta Burke
as Laura DeVega
Charlie Callas
as Francis A. Melville
Henry Darrow
as Dr. Sanchez
Pamela Hensley
as Bunny Richter
Lara Parker
as Janet
William Daniels
as Dr. DeVega
John Saxon
as Jerome Brademan
Crew
Director
- Russ Mayberry
Writer
- Glen A. Larson
- Paul Williams
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Rooster represents a fascinating example of Crime/Comedy/Mystery/TV Movie cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Russ Mayberry 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 1982, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Rooster took approximately 13 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 85 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 134 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
- The musical score contains over 58 unique compositions.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1982, when this film was released:
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Rooster 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 New Daughters of Joshua Cabe, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Rooster subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Hound Town and Holmes & Watson explore similar territory, Rooster 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: August 19, 1982
- Runtime: 1h 25m
