Cast
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Jens Jørn Spottag
as Marius Fiil
Bodil Jørgensen
as Gudrun Fiil
Thomas Ernst
as Niels Fiil
Laura Winther Møller
as Gerda Fiil
Trine Appel
as Radio host of home economics (voice, cameo)
Marie Bach Hansen
as Tulle Fiil
Mia Ejlerskov
as Bitten Fiil
Bjarne Henriksen
as Albert Carlo Iversen
Thomas Morris
as Hans Müller
Nick Wilder
as Schwitzgebel
Anne Louise Hassing
as Augusta Jacobsen
Andreas Jessen
as Jacob
Jesper Asholt
as Thorup Petersen
Erik Madsen
as Helmuth
Ole Dupont
as Modstandsmand
Crew
Director
- Anne-Grethe Bjarup Riis
Writer
- Ib Kastrup
- Jørgen Kastrup
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, This Life examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Anne-Grethe Bjarup Riis 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 character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2012, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of This Life took approximately 25 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 110 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 157 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 1854 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 2012, when this film is released:
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While This Life shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Hangmen Also Die!, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, This Life subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Sharp Stick and Breaking explore similar territory, This Life 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.
Details
- Release Date: March 1, 2012
- Runtime: 1h 50m
Where to Watch
