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Powder

Powder is a 1995 American science fantasy drama film written and directed by Victor Salva.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Powder is a 1995 American science fantasy drama film written and directed by Victor Salva. It stars Sean Patrick Flanery as Jeremy "Powder" Reed, with Mary Steenburgen, Jeff Goldblum, and Lance Henriksen in supporting roles. The film was released by Hollywood Pictures and became a commercial success despite mixed reviews.

Plot

The story centers on Jeremy "Powder" Reed, who is discovered after living in isolation and later comes into contact with a community that reacts to his appearance and abilities in different ways. The film focuses on themes of alienation, intelligence, compassion, and fear of difference.

Production

Powder was written and directed by Victor Salva and produced by Walt Disney Studios through its Hollywood Pictures label. The film was shot in Texas, including the Houston area.

Release and reception

The film was released in the United States on October 27, 1995. It received mixed reviews but performed well at the box office.

Cast

The principal cast includes Sean Patrick Flanery as Powder, Mary Steenburgen, Jeff Goldblum, and Lance Henriksen. Their characters help shape the film’s small-town and school-based conflict.

Key facts

  • Powder follows Jeremy "Powder" Reed, an albino young man with extraordinary intellect and supernatural abilities.
  • The film blends science fantasy and drama elements.
  • Sean Patrick Flanery plays the title role.
  • The film grossed about $30.9 million against a $9.5 million budget.
  • Critical reception was mixed.

Frequently asked questions

What is Powder about?
It is about Jeremy "Powder" Reed, a highly intelligent albino young man with supernatural abilities who struggles to fit into society.
Who directed Powder?
Victor Salva wrote and directed the film.
When was Powder released?
It was released on October 27, 1995.
Who stars in Powder?
Sean Patrick Flanery stars as Powder, alongside Mary Steenburgen, Jeff Goldblum, and Lance Henriksen.
Was Powder a box-office success?
Yes. It grossed about $30.9 million worldwide against a reported $9.5 million budget.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Powder_(1995_film)
    Supports: Release date, director, cast, plot overview, runtime, studio, and box office figures.
  2. Disney D23 — https://d23.com/a-to-z/powder-film/
    Supports: Official studio description, release date, cast, runtime, and filming location.
  3. RogerEbert.com — https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/powder-1995
    Supports: Plot synopsis and character background.