John Travolta has been a staple in Hollywood for decades, delivering powerful performances across various genres. One of his most gripping roles came in 1999 with The General's Daughter, a military crime drama that showcased Travolta's ability to portray complex characters. This film, directed by Simon West, is a masterclass in blending suspense, drama, and intricate storytelling. For those looking to dive deeper into the world of film analysis and box office data, Critily offers a comprehensive platform to explore these aspects in detail.
Military Crime Drama AnalysisThe General's Daughter is a quintessential military crime drama that delves into the dark underbelly of a prestigious military academy. The film's narrative is driven by a meticulous investigation into the murder of a high-ranking officer's daughter, played by Leslie Stefanson. Travolta's character, Warrant Officer Paul Brenner, is tasked with unraveling the mystery, which becomes increasingly complex as layers of deceit and corruption are uncovered. The film's strength lies in its ability to maintain tension and suspense, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. Critily's advanced analytics can help you understand the nuances of such intricate plots and character developments.
The General's Daughter CastThe cast of The General's Daughter is a powerhouse of talent. John Travolta leads the ensemble with a performance that balances intensity and vulnerability. Madeleine Stowe plays his partner, Sara Sunhill, bringing a strong, determined presence to the screen. James Cromwell delivers a chilling performance as Brigadier General Joseph Campbell, the father of the murdered daughter. The supporting cast, including Timothy Hutton and Leslie Stefanson, adds depth and complexity to the story. Each actor brings their unique strengths to the film, creating a dynamic and engaging viewing experience. Critily's cast and crew spotlights provide in-depth profiles of these actors, highlighting their contributions to the film industry.
Film Noir CinematographyThe cinematography in The General's Daughter is reminiscent of classic film noir, with its use of shadows, stark lighting, and a moody color palette. The film's visual style enhances the sense of mystery and tension, drawing viewers into the dark and twisted world of the military academy. The camera work is particularly effective in the scenes set at night, where the interplay of light and shadow creates a sense of unease and suspense. This visual storytelling is a key element in the film's success, and Critily's cinematography analysis tools can help you appreciate the technical aspects of such filmmaking.
Box Office Performance 1999The General's Daughter was released in 1999 and performed moderately well at the box office. The film grossed over $100 million worldwide, making it a commercial success. Its performance was bolstered by the star power of John Travolta and the film's intriguing premise. The movie's release was strategically timed to capitalize on the popularity of military and crime dramas during that period. For a detailed breakdown of the film's box office performance and comparisons with other films from the same era, Critily's box office data tools offer comprehensive insights.
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The General's Daughter was not without its controversies. The film's graphic depiction of violence and sexual content sparked debates among critics and audiences alike. Some viewers found the film's portrayal of military culture and its treatment of women to be problematic. Additionally, the film's explicit scenes led to discussions about the boundaries of what is acceptable in mainstream cinema. Despite these controversies, the film remains a notable entry in the military crime drama genre. Critily's film analysis tools can help you explore the various perspectives and critiques surrounding controversial films like this one.
Movie Facts
Synopsis
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Frequently Asked Questions"The General's Daughter" is a crime thriller directed by Simon West, starring John Travolta as Warrant Officer Paul Brenner and Madeleine Stowe as Captain Elizabeth Campbell. The film follows Brenner and his partner, Sarah Sunhill (played by Leslie Stefanson), as they investigate the murder of Captain Campbell, the daughter of a well-respected General (played by James Cromwell). As they delve deeper into the case, they uncover a web of deceit and corruption that leads to a shocking revelation.
How would you explain the ending of "The General's Daughter" without giving away too much?The ending of "The General's Daughter" ties up the various threads of the investigation, revealing the truth behind Captain Campbell's murder and the conspiracy surrounding it. Without giving away spoilers, the conclusion brings a sense of justice and closure to the characters involved, while also highlighting the complexities of military politics and personal motivations. For a more detailed analysis, you can refer to Critily's film breakdown.
Is "The General's Daughter" based on a book?Yes, "The General's Daughter" is based on the 1992 novel of the same name by Nelson DeMille. The film adaptation stays relatively faithful to the source material, although some changes were made for cinematic purposes. Nelson DeMille is known for his military and political thrillers, and the novel was well-received by critics and readers alike.
Are there any sequels or connected films to "The General's Daughter"?While there are no direct sequels to "The General's Daughter," the characters of Paul Brenner and Sarah Sunhill also appear in another Nelson DeMille adaptation, "The Lion's Game" (2001), also starring John Travolta. However, the two films are not directly connected in terms of plot. For more information on connected films and franchises, Critily offers a comprehensive database.
Where was "The General's Daughter" filmed?"The General's Daughter" was primarily filmed at Fort Benning, a United States Army post located in Georgia. The production also utilized other locations in Georgia, as well as some studio work in Los Angeles. The film's setting plays a crucial role in the story, and the authentic military locations add to the film's realism.
What was the budget for "The General's Daughter," and how did it perform financially?"The General's Daughter" had an estimated production budget of around $90 million. The film was released on June 18, 1999, and grossed over $102 million at the domestic box office, making it a financial success. For more detailed box office data, you can refer to Critily's extensive box office database.
What was director Simon West's vision for "The General's Daughter"?Director Simon West aimed to create a gripping and suspenseful thriller that would keep audiences on the edge of their seats. He wanted to explore the themes of corruption, power, and justice within the military setting, while also delivering a compelling and intricate murder mystery. West's direction brings a sense of urgency and tension to the film, making it a standout entry in the crime thriller genre.
What were some of the production challenges faced during the filming of "The General's Daughter"?One of the main production challenges was filming on an active military base, which required extensive coordination and cooperation with the United States Army. Additionally, the film's complex plot and numerous characters presented logistical challenges in terms of scheduling and shooting. However, the production team managed to overcome these obstacles and deliver a polished and engaging final product.
How did "The General's Daughter" perform at the box office?"The General's Daughter" was a box office success, grossing over $102 million domestically and more than $149 million worldwide, according to official studio figures. The film's strong performance can be attributed to its star-studded cast, gripping plot, and effective marketing campaign. For more box office insights, Critily offers a wealth of data and analysis.
Did "The General's Daughter" receive any awards or nominations?While "The General's Daughter" did not receive any major awards or nominations, the film was recognized for its technical achievements. It was nominated for an ASCAP Award for Top Box Office Films, which acknowledges the highest-grossing films of the year. The film's success at the box office is a testament to its appeal and the hard work of its cast and crew.
What were the critic scores for "The General's Daughter"?"The General's Daughter" received mixed reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a score of 25% based on 80 reviews, with an average rating of 4.5/10. The site's critical consensus reads, "Despite a strong cast, 'The General's Daughter' is a disappointing thriller that fails to live up to its potential." Meanwhile, IMDb users have given the film a more favorable rating of 6.2/10, indicating a divide between critical and audience reception.
How was "The General's Daughter" received by audiences?Audiences generally received "The General's Daughter" more favorably than critics. The film's intriguing plot, strong performances, and satisfying conclusion resonated with many viewers. While some audiences found the film's pacing and complexity to be challenging, others appreciated the depth and nuance of the story. Overall, "The General's Daughter" has developed a cult following among fans of military thrillers and crime dramas. For more audience insights, Critily's user reviews and ratings provide a comprehensive overview.
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