Cast overview, first billed only: | |||
John Travolta | ... | George Malley | |
Kyra Sedgwick | ... | Lace Pennamin | |
Forest Whitaker | ... | Nate Pope | |
Robert Duvall | ... | Doc | |
Jeffrey DeMunn | ... | Professor Ringold | |
Richard Kiley | ... | Dr. Wellin | |
David Gallagher | ... | Al | |
Ashley Buccille | ... | Glory | |
Tony Genaro | ... | Tito | |
Sean O'Bryan | ... | Banes | |
Michael Milhoan | ... | Jimmy | |
Troy Evans | ... | Roger | |
Bruce A. Young | ... | Jack Hatch (as Bruce Young) | |
Vyto Ruginis | ... | Ted Rhome | |
Brent Spiner | ... | Dr. Bob |
John Travolta plays George Malley, who owns the local auto repair shop in a small California town. After celebrating his birthday with friends at the local bar/hang-out, George heads for home. He pauses to watch a strange light in the sky, then collapses for a few seconds in the middle of the deserted street. In the days and weeks that follow, George finds his IQ and consciousness expanding dramatically, and develops telekinetic abilities. Despite his attempts to explain what has happened to him, with just a very few exceptions, most of the local townspeople treat the "new" George as a freak. His state of isolation becomes even more pronounced when his new-found abilities allow him to correctly predict an earthquake, and outside authorities become interested in what's happened to him. Written by - written by: R. Merriman <wyldberi@msn.com>
I'm not usually inspired to review your average hollywood fare, but I was moved by this film. Not only did it portray dramatic tension between one who is experiencing 'supernatural' awareness and their hokey, small-town friends, but Phenomenon also gains rank by being one of the first few films with a completely 'open mind.' I attribute its existence to the film Powder, which came out a few years ago, and I am honestly looking forward to more innovative dramas in a similar vein.
It will probably not become a classic, but it deserves to be seen in its time. Perhaps the honesty of this film will inspire other, greater filmmakers with more influence to change their ways and provide more thinking elements in their films.
Watch it with a loved one on a Saturday night.
A good alternative to show those boyfriends who are caught up in their own male-ness. Try this before plopping in Gone with the Wind. It may bridge the gap.