Cast
View AllAnthony Hopkins
as Lester
Julia Stiles
as Lillian
Alexander Ludwig
as Nate
Ray Liotta
as Richard Blackway
Steve Bacic
as Fitzgerald
Lochlyn Munro
as Murdoch
Hal Holbrook
as Whizzer
Aleks Paunovic
as Skell
Taylor Hickson
as Meth Head Girl
Chris Gauthier
as Chris
Aaron Pearl
as Scotty Cavanaugh
Glenn Beck
as DB
William Belleau
as Middle logger
Audrey Smallman
as Heidi
Dale Wilson
as Wingate
Crew
Director
- Daniel Alfredson
Writer
- Joe Gangemi
- Gregory Jacobs
Producer
- Ellen Goldsmith-Vein
- Anthony Hopkins
- Gregory Jacobs
- Rick Dugdale
- Lindsay Williams
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Blackway represents a fascinating example of Thriller/Mystery cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Daniel Alfredson 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 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 Blackway took approximately 27 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $8.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 90 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 119 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The costume department created over 314 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 2015, when this film is released:
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Blackway shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Street Mobster, which focuses more on action than character development, Blackway subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like King of the Ants and Shadow of a Doubt explore similar territory, Blackway 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: October 3, 2015
- Runtime: 1h 30m
- Budget: $8,000,000
- Revenue: $16,458
Where to Watch


