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ABBA: The Definitive Collection
8.4

ABBA: The Definitive Collection (2002)

Jul 15, 2002 2h 48m Music

If you're an ABBA fan or just a fan of good music in general, this assortment of 35 music videos which spans ABBA's career from 1974's Waterloo to 1982's Under Attack is indeed definitive. Simply put, it's a fantastic collection of music and images that mostly focuses on the 1970's era of ABBA's career, because that's when they reigned supreme in their international pop music kingdom.

Directed by Lasse Hallström

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Lasse Hallström
  • Kjell Sundvall

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Thematic Analysis

ABBA: The Definitive Collection represents a fascinating example of Music cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Lasse Hallström brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2002, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of ABBA: The Definitive Collection took approximately 31 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 168 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 196 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
  • The film contains approximately 2043 individual shots.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.

Historical Context

  • In 2002, when this film is released:
  • Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
  • Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
  • Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.

How This Film Stands Out

While ABBA: The Definitive Collection shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Queen: Greatest Video Hits, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, ABBA: The Definitive Collection offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like The Work of Director Michel Gondry and Dire Straits: Sultans of Swing, The Very Best of Dire Straits explore similar territory, ABBA: The Definitive Collection stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.