Cast
View AllOmar Gooding
as Detective Green
Alex West
as Assistant District Attorney Bobby Casey
Roc Living
as Pastor Caldwell
John Maciag
as Officer Lacox
Brandy Specks
as Francis Grey
Jessica Law-Davis
as Nicole West
Ian Haywood
as William King
Jalene Mack
as Officer Morgan
Justin Milton
as Undercover Cop
Qasim Barnes
as Dominic Barnes
Crew
Writer
- Justin Milton
Producer
- Qasim Barnes
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Don't Shoot represents a fascinating example of 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.
Released in 2017, 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 Don't Shoot took approximately 26 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 119 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 156 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1770 individual shots.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The costume department created over 396 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 2017, 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 Don't Shoot shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Mother, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Don't Shoot subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Birth of a MURDERER and Alone Together explore similar territory, Don't Shoot 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: May 21, 2017
- Runtime: 1h 59m
Where to Watch

