Cast
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Ice Cube
as Curtis Plummer
Keke Palmer
as Jasmine
Tasha Smith
as Claire Plummer
Jill Marie Jones
as Ronnie
Dash Mihok
as Cyrus
Matt Craven
as Coach Fisher
Glenn Plummer
as Winston
Garrett Morris
as Reverend Pratt
Miles Chandler
as Damon
Chloe Bridges
as Tammy
Debby Ryan
as Popular Girl
Malcolm Goodwin
as Roy
Michael Colyar
as Ennis
Earthquake
as Karl
Hugo Perez
as Edgar Mejavar
Crew
Director
- Fred Durst
Writer
- Nick Santora
Producer
- Nick Santora
- Matt Alvarez
- Ice Cube
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Longshots examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Fred Durst 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 2008, 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 The Longshots took approximately 19 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $23.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 94 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 154 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 1002 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 2008, when this film is released:
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Longshots shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Against the Ropes, which focuses more on action than character development, The Longshots subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Karate Kid Part II and Half Nelson explore similar territory, The Longshots 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: August 22, 2008
- Runtime: 1h 34m
- Budget: $23,000,000
- Revenue: $11,767,866
Where to Watch
