Cast overview, first billed only: | |||
Peter Riegert | ... | Capt. Gregory Fanducci | |
Joan Severance | ... | Marla Stewart | |
William Hickey | ... | Lars Hagstrom | |
Tim Ryan | ... | Sam Stewart | |
Mitchell Laurance | ... | Martin Almquist | |
Lawrence Tierney | ... | Chief Richardson | |
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Dawan Scott | ... | Fenrir |
Chris Young | ... | Jacob | |
Alexander Godunov | ... | Sigvaldson, The Clockmaker | |
Donald Hotton | ... | Ask Franag | |
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Erika Schickel | ... | Angela |
Bill Kalmenson | ... | Lester | |
Arthur Malet | ... | Stoddard | |
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John Hobson | ... | Marotta |
Anthony Cistaro | ... | Detective |
A Norse runestone is discovered in Western Pennsylvania. The prophecy upon it tells of the Norse great wolf Fenrir (Fenris), and that its release from the stone will bring about Ragnarok --- the end of the world. Archaeologist Sam Stewart and wife Marla find it has some connection to their friend Martin. A young boy named Jacob is haunted by terrifying nightmares of what is to come, and his family explains these dreams through stories from Norse legend, which says that the only one who can destroy Fenrir is Tyr, the Norse god of war, who is prophesied to return to fight the creature. Written by Scott Hutchins <scottandrewh@home.com>
I must comment on this film. It's one of my favorites. It superbly blends Norse mythology and imaginative writing to deliver a gripping, suspenseful tale. The script is witty and fast-paced. The Runestone is actually somewhat of an intelligent film. Sure, this is a lower budget project; but the director spent his money well. He put considerable effort into developing the characters. The monster is truly frightening. The production values are excellent. Some of the scenes possess a surreal quality that I really enjoy. The cast is certainly up to the task. Joan Severence gives an compelling, vivacious performance. In fact, everyone in the film is entertaining. The melding of the New York avant garde art world with Norse archaeology in various scenes is one of the elements that let this film enthrall the viewer. Its a fun ride to just sit back and enjoy the ambience and imagination of it all.
I consider "The Runestone" one of the top films in the monster genre. I think that once you see it you will too.