Cast
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Donald Sutherland
as Dr. 'Mac' MacLean
Mimi Kuzyk
as Jessica Saunders
Vlasta Vrana
as Dr. Robbie Allman
Corin Nemec
as Ken Ryan
Hayley Reynolds
as Niki Janus
Miguel Fernandes
as George Cornwall
Michael Rudder
as Woody Gifford
Michael J. Reynolds
as Jack Aspect
Bronwen Mantel
as Gaylene Janus
Peter Colvey
as Victor Janus
Richard Zeman
as Shepherd
Ann Page
as Receptionist
Henderson Walcott
as U.S. Marine
Philip Pretten
as Attache
Michael Caloz
as Ken (9 years old)
Crew
Director
- Piers Haggard
Writer
- Mike Hodges
- Gerard Macdonald
Producer
- Nicolas Clermont
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Lifeforce Experiment 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 Piers Haggard 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 1994, 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 The Lifeforce Experiment took approximately 20 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 95 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 138 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 6 weeks before filming began.
- The film contains approximately 2072 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1994, when this film was released:
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- 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 The Lifeforce Experiment shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Human Nature, which focuses more on action than character development, The Lifeforce Experiment offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Scoop and The Sixth Sense explore similar territory, The Lifeforce Experiment 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: April 16, 1994
- Runtime: 1h 35m
