---
title: "Of Unknown Origin"
year: 1983
canonical_url: "https://www.archytele.com/show/of-unknown-origin-1983"
media_type: "movie"
tmdb_id: 37227
imdb_id: null
status: "Released"
runtime_minutes: 88
community_rating: 5.8
vote_count: 0
content_rating: "R"
---

# Of Unknown Origin (1983) — Television & Cinema Intelligence Dossier

> **Archytele Living Vault Canonical Record**: https://www.archytele.com/show/of-unknown-origin-1983

## Executive Summary & Cultural Positioning

Of Unknown Origin is a film first released in 1983. Catalogued under Horror. Produced and broadcast by Canadian Film Development Corporation, Les Productions Mutuelles Ltée, Famous Players. Current status: Released.

## The Hook & The Verdict

**The Hook**: "A newly renovated home becomes a battleground between man and a relentless rat."

### Why Watch
- Intense cat‑and‑mouse confrontation
- Atmospheric setting in a cramped townhouse

### Caveats & Content Note
- Short runtime may leave some elements underexplored
- R rating limits younger viewers
- Tone & Suitability: The R rating indicates intense violence and frightening scenes, making it suitable for mature audiences only.

**Micro-Themes & Vibe Matrix**: creepy, claustrophobic, slow-burn

## Streaming Availability Matrix

Direct streaming licensing updates dynamically. Consult the live tracking interface at https://www.archytele.com/show/of-unknown-origin-1983#watch.

## Creative Credits

- **Directed by**: George P. Cosmatos
- **Networks / Studios**: Canadian Film Development Corporation, Les Productions Mutuelles Ltée, Famous Players

## Key Cast Continuity

- **Peter Weller** as *Bart Hughes*
- **Jennifer Dale** as *Lorrie Wells*
- **Lawrence Dane** as *Eliot Riverton*
- **Kenneth Welsh** as *James Hall*
- **Louis Del Grande** as *Clete*
- **Shannon Tweed** as *Meg Hughes*
- **Keith Knight** as *Hardware Salesman*
- **Maury Chaykin** as *Dan Errol*
- **Leif Anderson** as *Peter Hughes*
- **Jimmy Tapp** as *Meg's Father*

## Canonical Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: What is the central premise of the film?
A man who has just finished rebuilding his townhouse becomes obsessed with a rat infestation that escalates into a deadly duel.

### Q: What genre does the movie belong to?
It is classified as a horror film.

### Q: How long is the movie?
The runtime is approximately one hour and twenty‑eight minutes.

### Q: When was the film released?
It was released in the United States on November 23, 1983.

### Q: Who is the main character?
The story centers on a man who has recently completed renovating his townhouse.

## Grounded Source Citations

- [Of Unknown Origin — The Movie Database (TMDB)](https://www.themoviedb.org/movie/37227)

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*Generated by Archytele Open Intelligence Systems. Data verified against TMDB and JustWatch APIs.*