Cast
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Gina Gershon
as Corky
Jennifer Tilly
as Violet
Joe Pantoliano
as Caesar
John P. Ryan
as Mickey Malnato
Christopher Meloni
as Johnnie Marzzone
Richard C. Sarafian
as Gino Marzzone
Barry Kivel
as Shelly
Mary Mara
as Bartender
Susie Bright
as Jesse
Margaret Smith
as Woman Cop
Peter Spellos
as Lou
Ivan Kane
as Cop #1
Kevin Michael Richardson
as Cop #2
Gene Borkan
as Roy
Crew
Director
- Lana Wachowski
- Lilly Wachowski
Producer
- Stuart Boros
- Andrew Lazar
Reviews
talisencrw
Easily the best film the Wachowskis have ever done. I heartily wish that they had stayed low-key, under the radar, and made great scorching films like this one.
Mar 5, 2016
Filipe Manuel Neto
**A competent and well-made erotic thriller, but without great originality.**
This movie was a pleasant surprise. It came out in 1996, when dramatic films with a strong erotic content were still in vogue. Perhaps it is one of the last to have known some success, in fact. Understandably, the film remained very much alive in the heydays of VHS, I think it made its way to DVD, but gradually fell into oblivion where it currently rests. Is it deserved? Maybe not, but it's understandable to a certain extent: it's not an excellent film, but it will be a good bet for anyone who likes erotic thrillers.
The screenplay is based on the lesbian case of two women, who become involved and decide to run away with a large fortune in mafia money, incriminating the mafia boyfriend of one of them. This is a script devoid of any kind of originality and that can only surprise for the lesbian content and the high dose of nudity, because all the violence, the profanity, the strong dialogues, the fast scenes, all of these are elements that we all expected. in a film of this type.
The work of the directors is excellent and opened the doors to the “Matrix” franchise, with which they would come to consecrate themselves before falling back into obscurity from which they rarely manage to rise. They managed to insert many nuances of film noir into a strongly erotic plot, including the aesthetics and lighting of several scenes, and the sets, costumes, cinematography and soundtrack are truly good.
The two leading actresses are Gina Gershon and Jennifer Tilly. None of them are great actresses, each of them has had their moments of brilliance in films where they have minor roles, and I don't think they will ever go beyond that. So, what they do here is interesting because they both showed commitment and gave a lot to the project. It doesn't mean they are extraordinarily talented or great actresses. The fact is that they got a good partnership on stage, they have a strong and credible chemistry, and the film builds on top of that effectively. As an actor, Joe Pantoliano is better and gives us the best interpretation of the film, and it's worth seeing the actor working with them.
Aug 15, 2023
r96sk
<em>'Bound'</em> is a fun one!
I've always wanted to get this watched since growing up with (the great) Jennifer Tilly via the <em>'<a href="https://letterboxd.com/films/in/childs-play-collection/by/release-earliest/size/large/" rel="nofollow">Chucky</a>'</em> franchise and having heard this mentioned on/off down the years, so I'm glad that I have belatedly done so. It's entertaining! I knew of the love stuff and it sure does deliver, though I am surprised it only really happens at the beginning... it makes sense, I just assumed it was gonna be recurring throughout.
Tilly and Gina Gershon are excellent together, very strong onscreen chemistry! Like with what I previously mentioned, I was also slightly surprised that Gershon disappears for what felt like a decent chunk of the movie; despite being literally next door. Again, works for the story but would've expected her to be there all the way. Joe Pantoliano stars behind them, ahead of a solid supporting cast.
One to watch, which is interestingly The Wachowskis' directorial debut.
Jan 24, 2024
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Bound examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Lana Wachowski 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 character development and emotional depth 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 critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Bound took approximately 8 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $4.5 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 105 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 132 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
- The screenplay went through 14 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
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 Bound shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me, which focuses more on action than character development, Bound offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Laura and Yoshiko & Yuriko explore similar territory, Bound 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: September 13, 1996
- Runtime: 1h 45m
- Budget: $4,500,000
- Revenue: $7,011,317
Where to Watch
