The Relic

Name: The Relic
Director: Peter Hyams
Genre: Horror, Mystery, Thriller, Science Fiction
Released: 1997-01-01
Duration: 110 min
Rating: 6.0
Cast: Penelope Ann Miller, Tom Sizemore, Linda Hunt, James Whitmore, Clayton Rohner

1997Dir. Peter Hyams1h 50m

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Runtime1h 50m

Released1997

Budget$60M

Box office$34M

DirectorPeter Hyams

About This Movie

The Relic has this gritty, almost claustrophobic feel, especially with its setting in the Chicago Museum of Natural History. It's a mix of horror and mystery, with the creature design being one of the standout points—practical effects that really give it a unique edge over CGI-heavy monsters of today. The pacing is steady, drawing you in with a sense of dread as the detective and biologist unravel the chaos. Tom Sizemore and Penelope Ann Miller deliver solid performances, grounding the fantastical elements in something a bit more real. Plus, the whole vibe leans into that 90s style of creature feature that has its own charm—definitely a film that scratches that specific itch for genre fans.

Directed by Peter Hyams; a mix of horror and thriller.Features practical effects rather than CGI for creature design.Set in the Chicago Museum of Natural History.Released in 1997; not as well-known but has cult appeal.