Cast
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Gary Graham
as Detective Matt Sikes
Eric Pierpoint
as George Francisco
Michele Scarabelli
as Susan Francisco
Terri Treas
as Cathy Frankel
Lauren Woodland
as Emily Francisco
Sean Six
as Buck Francisco
Joe Lando
as Rick Shaw
Jeffrey Marcus
as Albert Einstein
Jeffrey Marcus
as Captain Bryon Grazer
Wayne Pére
as Terry Firma
Tiny Ron
as Queen Mother
Dana Anderson
as May O'Naize
Brigitta Dau
as Carry Onbag
Darin Heames
as Saran Wrap, Eeno Foreman
Kerrie Keane
as Jessica
Crew
Director
- Kenneth Johnson
Writer
- Diane Frolov
- Andrew Schneider
Producer
- Ron Mitchell
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a science fiction narrative, Alien Nation: The Enemy Within explores potential technological and societal futures, raising important questions about humanity's place in the universe and our evolutionary trajectory. The film stands apart from other sci-fi works by presenting a vision that is both thought-provoking and visually distinctive.
Director Kenneth Johnson 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 1996, 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 Alien Nation: The Enemy Within took approximately 6 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 director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The costume department created over 104 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1996, when this film was released:
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Alien Nation: The Enemy Within shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Alien Implant, which focuses more on action than character development, Alien Nation: The Enemy Within offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Attack Force and The X Files: I Want to Believe explore similar territory, Alien Nation: The Enemy Within 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: November 12, 1996
- Runtime: 1h 31m
