Cast
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Robert Powell
as Keller
Jenny Agutter
as Hobbs
Joseph Cotten
as Priest
Angela Punch McGregor
as Beth
Peter Sumner
as Tewson
Lorna Lesley
as Susan
Ralph Cotterill
as Slater
Adrian Wright
as Goodwin
Tyler Coppin
as Boy
Kirk Alexander
as Dr. Alexander
Jon Nicholls
as Jackson
Roger Cardwell
as Flight Engineer
Kirk Alexander
as Dr. Martindale
Jenufa Scott-Roberts
as Stewardess
John Edmund
as Goswell
Crew
Director
- David Hemmings
Producer
- Antony I. Ginnane
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This Horror/Mystery/Thriller film explores themes of fear and survival, delving into the psychological aspects of human nature when confronted with the unknown. The Survivor presents a unique perspective on the horror genre by blending supernatural elements with realistic human reactions.
Director David Hemmings 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 1981, 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 The Survivor took approximately 34 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 98 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 142 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
- The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1981, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Survivor shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Something Wicked This Way Comes, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Survivor subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Dark Mirror and The Falcon and the Snowman explore similar territory, The Survivor 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: July 9, 1981
- Runtime: 1h 38m
Where to Watch
