Cast
View All
Robin Dunne
as Ryan Sommers
Nathan West
as Parker Neal
Ashley Tesoro
as Ali (as Ashley Lyn Cafagna)
Lindy Booth
as Kelly
James Gallanders
as Greg Sommers
Andrew Gillies
as Winston Taft
Aaron Ashmore
as Matt 'Hutch' Hutchinson
Stephen Young
as Senator George Milford
Simon Reynolds
as Dr. Phillip Sprague
Sandi Ross
as Mrs. Beckford
Ardon Bess
as Mr. Beckford
Margot Gagnon
as Diana Rollins
Patric Masurkevitch
as Lacrosse Coach
R.D. Reid
as Professor
Christopher Ralph
as Jeff Colby
Crew
Director
- Joe Chappelle
Writer
- John Pogue
Producer
- Neal H. Moritz
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action/Comedy/Thriller film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, The Skulls II distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Joe Chappelle 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 2002, 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 The Skulls II took approximately 32 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $3.8 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 99 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 128 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
- The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The costume department created over 161 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 2002, when this film is released:
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Skulls II shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Skulls II subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Mr. & Mrs. Smith and Shrek 2 explore similar territory, The Skulls II stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: April 9, 2002
- Runtime: 1h 39m
- Budget: $3,800,000
