Cast
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Kristy Swanson
as Joanna Riley
Mark Boyd
as Case Riley
Sophie Bolen
as Allison Riley
Stella Shoha
as Rachel Riley
Nancy Wagner
as Grandma Barbara
Dean Cain
as Det. John Belton
Calhoun Koenig
as Dress Store Customer #1
Deborah Chenault-Green
as Bible Study Lady
Deon Hunt
as Daddy (as Deon Andrew Hunt)
Tevis R. Marcum
as Tex
Eileen Hayes
as Maggie
Maria Wasikowski
as Karen
Brian Papandrea
as Aaron
Shane Carson
as Biggs
Garrett Thierry
as Ben
Crew
Director
- Joel Paul Reisig
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Trafficked: A Parent's Worst Nightmare 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 Joel Paul Reisig 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 2021, 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 Trafficked: A Parent's Worst Nightmare took approximately 8 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 108 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 140 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 14 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The costume department created over 484 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 2021, when this film is released:
- Streaming platforms had largely replaced traditional cinema and television models.
- Climate change mitigation had become a central policy concern internationally.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Trafficked: A Parent's Worst Nightmare shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Malena, which focuses more on action than character development, Trafficked: A Parent's Worst Nightmare subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Frozen River and Borderline explore similar territory, Trafficked: A Parent's Worst Nightmare 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 25, 2021
- Runtime: 1h 48m
