Cast
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Jan-Michael Vincent
as Jack Collins
Leo Rossi
as Frank DeSalvo
Lance Henriksen
as Chris Caleek
Charles Napier
as Tom Mitchum
Rip Torn
as Vic Luca
Harold Sylvester
as Brian Armstrong
Jere Burns
as Jared Riley
Harriet Hall
as Sandy Collins
Ken Lerner
as Gravenstein
Jack Andreozzi
as Abe Fasio
Nick Barbaro
as Mario
Lou Bonacki
as Johnson
Barry Brenner
as Doctor
Geoff Brewer
as Brock
Richard E. Butler
as Wink
Crew
Director
- William Lustig
Writer
- Scott Spiegel
- Josh Becker
Producer
- Paul Hertzberg
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action/Thriller/Crime film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Hit List distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director William Lustig 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 1989, 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 Hit List took approximately 32 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 87 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 107 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1699 individual shots.
- The costume department created over 440 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1989, when this film was released:
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Hit List shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Cut Off, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Hit List offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Rage: Carrie 2 and The Cook, the Thief, His Wife & Her Lover explore similar territory, Hit List 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: March 3, 1989
- Runtime: 1h 27m
