Cast overview, first billed only: | |||
Mary Steenburgen | ... | Jessie Caldwell | |
Sean Patrick Flanery | ... | Jeremy 'Powder' Reed | |
Lance Henriksen | ... | Sheriff Doug Barnum | |
Jeff Goldblum | ... | Donald Ripley | |
Brandon Smith | ... | Deputy Harley Duncan | |
Bradford Tatum | ... | John Box | |
Susan Tyrrell | ... | Maxine | |
Missy Crider | ... | Lindsey Kelloway | |
Ray Wise | ... | Dr. Aaron Stripler | |
Esteban Powell | ... | Mitch | |
Reed Frerichs | ... | Skye | |
Chad Cox | ... | Zane | |
![]() |
Joe Marchman | ... | Brennan |
Philip Maurice Hayes | ... | Greg Reed (as Phillip Maurice Hayes) | |
![]() |
Danette McMahon | ... | Emma Barnum |
When sheriff Barnum investigates the death of an elderly rural resident, he discovers a teenage grandson living in the basement. Raised by his grandparents, he has experienced the world only through books, never leaving the family farm. He is sent to a state home for boys where he has trouble fitting in socially. His odd appearance and unusual abilities cause the small town residents to fear and ridicule him. However, not all are afraid. Some begin to view his potential and gifts with wonderment. Written by Robert B. Young <youngb@tastemaker.com>
Many positive superlatives could not express the brilliance of this film. It astounds me that given the rather un-original state Hollywood has been in since 1980 (and continues to be in with the blatant and dull John Travolta rip-off of Phenomenon in 1996) that such a wonderful film was given the green light. It is always a rarity to see this type of masterpiece hit the screen... and a pleasure too. There was much controversy surrounding this film upon its initial release... mostly of the kind that had nothing to do with the actual movie. To that I can only say one thing... it takes more then one person to make a movie! Get over it. Besides the clever, thought provoking, tender, respectful and intelligent script penned by Victor Salva, he also does a top-notch job in the direction. I loved this movie, I own this movie and I whole-heartedly recommend it to everyone.