Cast
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Sean Young
as Angela Bayer
Kim Cattrall
as Carla Rainer
Eric McCormack
as Timothy Bayer
William Devane
as Lawrence Kellerman
Diego Wallraff
as Detective Garcia
Stephen Mendel
as Dr. Harold Beeson
Robert Lujan
as Ron Lansing
Mark Acheson
as Burt Ramsey
Rob Daprocida
as Bruno
Donald Adams
as Sam Jorgenson
Robyn Palmer
as Receptionist
Gerard Plunkett
as Diamond Merchant
Heather Hanson
as Woman in Strip Club
Ellie Harvie
as Secretary
Marc Akerstream
as Hooded Killer (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- David Winning
Writer
- Shell Danielson
- Shuki Levy
Producer
- Jeff Sackman
- James Shavick
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Exception to the Rule represents a fascinating example of Thriller 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 David Winning 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 1997, 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 Exception to the Rule took approximately 18 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 98 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 132 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1009 individual shots.
- The musical score contains over 48 unique compositions.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1997, when this film was released:
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Exception to the Rule shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike All That Divides Us, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Exception to the Rule subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Gone in Sixty Seconds and Shoot to Kill explore similar territory, Exception to the Rule stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: January 1, 1997
- Runtime: 1h 38m
