The Runestone (1991)

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 --... See full summary »

Director:

Willard Carroll

Writers:

Mark E. Rogers (novel), Willard Carroll (screenplay)

Stars:

Peter Riegert, Joan Severance, William Hickey

Cast

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
Dawan Scott	...	Fenrir
Chris Young	...	Jacob
Alexander Godunov	...	Sigvaldson, The Clockmaker
Donald Hotton	...	Ask Franag
Erika Schickel	...	Angela
Bill Kalmenson	...	Lester
Arthur Malet	...	Stoddard
John Hobson	...	Marotta
Anthony Cistaro	...	Detective

Storyline

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.

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Plot Keywords:

neo noir | norse | norse god | prophecy | new york city | 

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Taglines:

An ancient prophecy is about to become a modern nightmare.

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Genres:

Adventure | Comedy | Fantasy | Horror

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Certificate:

R

Did You Know?

Trivia

The "no beast so fierce" line is from Shakespeare's Richard III.

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Quotes

Chief Richardson: I'll tell you what it is, Fanducci. It's a big guy in a bulletproof dog suit.

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Connections

References Metropolis (1927)

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Soundtracks

The Teddy Bears' Picnic
Music by John W. Bratton
Lyrics by Jimmy Kennedy
Published by Warner Chappell Music, Inc. (ASCAP)

User Reviews

A Fun and Witty Monster/Myth Production

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.

Details

Country:

USA

Language:

English

Release Date:

23 July 1993 (USA)

Also Known As:

The Runestone

Filming Locations:

Los Angeles, California, USA

Company Credits

Production Co:

The Movie Group, Hyperion Pictures, Signature Communications

Technical Specs

Runtime:

105 min

Sound Mix:

Ultra Stereo

Color:

Color

Aspect Ratio:

1.37 : 1