Backdrop preview Canticle backdrop
Canticle

Canticle (1972)

Jul 17, 1972 1h 46m Drama

While conducting interviews with women working in local brothels, Fernando, a journalist, meets Elisa. The woman will tell him her dramatic story, which begins at age 14 when she is raped by her godfather.

Directed by Jorge Grau

Cast

View All

Crew

Director
  • Jorge Grau
Writer
  • Mario Camus
  • Rafael Canogar
  • Jorge Grau
  • Claudio Rodríguez

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to review this movie!
Sign in to leave a review.

Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Canticle examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Jorge Grau 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 1972, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Canticle took approximately 11 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 106 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 129 minutes long.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.

Historical Context

  • In 1972, when this film was released:
  • Disco music dominated popular culture.
  • The Watergate scandal changed public perception of political institutions.
  • The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.

How This Film Stands Out

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

Unlike Shall We Kiss?, which focuses more on action than character development, Canticle subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Under Suspicion and Luna Papa explore similar territory, Canticle 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: July 17, 1972
  • Runtime: 1h 46m

Similar Movies

Shall We Kiss?
Shall We Kiss?
2007
6.2
Luna Papa
Luna Papa
1999
6.3
Deliverance
Deliverance
1972
7.3