Backdrop preview Big Sky backdrop
Big Sky

Big Sky (2015)

Aug 14, 2015 1h 35m Drama Thriller

Hazel suffers from a crippling case of agoraphobia - so much so that it causes a rift between her and her mother, Dee. They agree that Hazel will go to a treatment facility to help her deal with her fear, transported by a driver and specialty van from the facility. But when two masked gunmen attack them on the desert road, Hazel has to battle her fears so she and her mother can survive.

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Directed by Jorge Michel Grau

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Jorge Michel Grau
Writer
  • Evan M. Wiener
Producer
  • Randy Manis
  • Christina Papagjika
  • Matthew Salloway

Reviews

CockOfVengence
1/10

A shameful waste of talented cast minus Bella Thorne

Aug 26, 2021

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Big Sky examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Jorge Michel Grau 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 2015, 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 Big Sky took approximately 33 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • With a budget of $7.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 95 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 137 minutes long.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
  • The screenplay went through 15 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.

Historical Context

  • In 2015, when this film is released:
  • Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
  • Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Big Sky shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike The Hitcher, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Big Sky offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Sniper and Rabbit-Proof Fence explore similar territory, Big Sky 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: August 14, 2015
  • Runtime: 1h 35m
  • Budget: $7,000,000

Where to Watch

Starz Apple TV Channel
Starz Roku Premium Channel
Starz
Philo
Starz Amazon Channel

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