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Deadly Dancer

Deadly Dancer (1990)

Jan 01, 1990 1h 39m Thriller Drama

A police detective, investigating a string of murders of strippers at a Los Angeles night club, must race against the clock to clear his name when he's wrongfully accused of being the killer.

Directed by Kimberley Casey

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Kimberley Casey
Writer
  • David Halpern
Producer
  • Kimberley Casey

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Deadly Dancer 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 Kimberley Casey 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 1990, 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 Deadly Dancer took approximately 17 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 99 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 128 minutes long.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The screenplay went through 9 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • The costume department created over 134 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 1990, when this film was released:
  • Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
  • 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 Deadly Dancer shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike 10 to Midnight, which focuses more on action than character development, Deadly Dancer offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Fear City and The Ever After explore similar territory, Deadly Dancer 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: January 1, 1990
  • Runtime: 1h 39m

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