Cast and Crew of Explorers

Explorers

"Explorers," directed by Joe Dante and released in 1985, initially struggled at the box office and received mixed reviews from critics who felt it didn't fully reach its imaginative potential. Featuring young Ethan Hawke as Ben Crandall and River Phoenix as Wolfgang Müller, the film tells the story of three adventurous boys who invent a spaceship to embark on a fantastical interplanetary journey. Over the years, "Explorers" has gained a devoted following and is now regarded as a cult classic, celebrated for its creative storytelling, nostalgic 80s charm, and the early performances of its now-famous cast members. Its blend of fantasy, humor, and heartfelt adventure has earned it a status as an underrated gem among fans of the genre.

Main Cast of Explorers

Ethan Hawke as Ben Crandall

Ethan Hawke

Ben Crandall
River Phoenix as Wolfgang Müller

River Phoenix

Wolfgang Müller
Jason Presson as Darren Woods

Jason Presson

Darren Woods

Crew of Explorers

Full backstage crew list →