Distant Cousins (1993)
A slow-burn domestic thriller where a family reunion turns into something far more sinister than anyone anticipated.
Distant Cousins - Movie Information
- Original Title: Distant Cousins
- Release Year: 1993
- Directed by: Andrew Lane
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Thriller
- Age Rating (US): R
- Runtime: 1h 32m
- Original Language: Hungarian
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): May 16, 1993 (United States - R)
- Alternative Titles: Desperate Motive (US)
- Production Companies: Starlight Film, The Image Organization
- Production Countries: Germany, United States of America
Distant Cousins - Plot
Kate's husband Richard hasn't seen his cousin Harry for 20 years. So when he comes to stay with his fiancée Connie they are welcomed. But Kate senses her family is at risk when they start behaving suspiciously.
Distant Cousins - Trailer
See the tension unfold in the official trailer for this 1993 thriller:
The moment they arrived, The Nightmare Began...
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Distant Cousins - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Andrew Lane
Main Cast
- Mel Harris
- David Keith
- William Katt
- Mary Crosby
- Brian Bonsall
- Marg Helgenberger
- Cyndi Pass
- John O'Leary
- Edward Bunker
- Stacey Nelkin
Writers
- Pierre David
- C. Courtney Joyner
Distant Cousins - FAQs
What is Distant Cousins about?
Distant Cousins is a 1993 domestic thriller about Kate, whose husband Richard reunites with his long-lost cousin Harry and Harry's fiancée Connie. As the houseguests settle in, Kate grows increasingly suspicious of their true motives, sensing that her family may be in serious danger.
Where can I watch Distant Cousins?
Streaming availability for Distant Cousins varies by region and platform. Your best option is to check JustWatch, which aggregates current streaming, rental, and purchase options across all major platforms so you can find where it is available in your area.
Who are the main actors in Distant Cousins?
The film stars Mel Harris as Katherine Sullivan, David Keith as the menacing cousin Harry Young, and William Katt as Richard Sullivan. The supporting cast includes Marg Helgenberger as Connie, Mary Crosby as Marcie, and Brian Bonsall as young Alex Sullivan.
Is Distant Cousins based on a true story?
Distant Cousins is not based on a true story. It is an original fictional thriller written by Pierre David and C. Courtney Joyner, built around the classic suspense premise of a trusted houseguest who gradually reveals a threatening and dangerous hidden agenda.
What is the age rating for Distant Cousins?
Distant Cousins is rated R by the MPA, meaning it is intended for audiences aged 17 and older. The rating reflects the film's suspenseful and potentially intense thriller content, and parental guidance is strongly recommended for younger viewers.
Who directed Distant Cousins?
Distant Cousins was directed by Andrew Lane. The film was produced by Starlight Film and The Image Organization, and released in the United States on May 16, 1993, under the alternate title Desperate Motive.
How long is Distant Cousins?
Distant Cousins has a runtime of 92 minutes, or approximately 1 hour and 32 minutes. The film maintains a tight, focused pace throughout, which suits its domestic thriller format and helps sustain tension from the opening scenes to the climax.
What are some movies similar to Distant Cousins?
If you enjoyed Distant Cousins, you may also like other suspenseful thrillers with similar tones, such as Just the Two of Us (2023), Truth (2015), and Long Distance (2024). These films share themes of domestic tension, hidden motives, and psychological unease.
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