Cast
View All
Małgorzata Foremniak
as Ash
Władysław Kowalski
as Game Master
Jerzy Gudejko
as Murphy
Dariusz Biskupski
as Bishop
Bartłomiej Świderski
as Stunner
Katarzyna Bargiełowska
as Receptionist
Alicja Sapryk
as Gill
Zuzanna Kasz
as Ghost
Adam Szyszkowski
as Player A
Marek Stawinski
as Player C
Michał Breitenwald
as "Murphy" z zespołu "Dziewięć Sióstr"
Krzysztof Szczerbiński
as gracz B
Jarosław Budnik
as Cooper (voice)
Andrzej Dębski
as Cusinart (voice)
Elzbieta Towarnicka
as Soloist at Philharmonic
Crew
Director
- Mamoru Oshii
Producer
- Atsushi Kubo
- Wojciech Widelski
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action/Science Fiction film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Avalon distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Mamoru Oshii 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 2001, 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 Avalon took approximately 23 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $8.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 107 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 139 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The musical score contains over 52 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2001, when this film is released:
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Avalon shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Fifth Element, which focuses more on action than character development, Avalon subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Memory Run and I Worship His Shadow explore similar territory, Avalon stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: January 20, 2001
- Runtime: 1h 47m
- Budget: $8,000,000
- Revenue: $8,826,094
