Cast
View AllDanielle DuClos
as Denver Deck
Jason Kristofer
as Erskine Eakleburg
Cameron Johann
as Hoggy Livingstone
Devin Ratray
as Oscar Opily
Kimble Joyner
as Newton Robinson
Marian Seldes
as Miss Maple
Ilya Baskin
as Timoshenko
Victor Steinbach
as Thin Russian
Leonard Termo
as KGB Chief (as Lenny Termo)
Franklin Cover
as FBI Chief
Michael C. Mahon
as FBI Agent in Car
Sam Coppola
as Principal
Gerald F. Gough
as First Russian General (as Gerald Francis Gough)
John Calvin Doyle
as Coy
Jonathan Failla
as Carousel Ticket Taker
Crew
Director
- Arthur Sherman
Writer
- Robert Littell
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Zits represents a fascinating example of Family/Comedy 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 Arthur Sherman 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 1988, 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 Zits took approximately 12 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 96 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 132 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 33 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1988, when this film was released:
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Zits shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Election, which focuses more on action than character development, Zits subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Bulworth and Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle explore similar territory, Zits stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: July 7, 1988
- Runtime: 1h 36m
