Cast
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Ulrich Matthes
as Abbé Henri Kremer
August Diehl
as Untersturmführer Gebhardt
Hilmar Thate
as Bischof Philippe
Bibiana Beglau
as Marie Kremer
Germain Wagner
as Roger Kremer
Jean-Paul Raths
as Raymond Schmitt
Ivan Jiřík
as
Götz Burger
as
Michael König
as
Karel Dobrý
as
Adolf Filip
as
Petr Janiš
as
Peter Varga
as Józef (Polish Inmate) (as Petr Varga)
Václav Krátký
as SS-Mann
Vladimír Fiser
as Bischof Kozal (as Vladimir Fiser)
Crew
Director
- Volker Schlöndorff
Producer
- Jürgen Haase
- Jakob Hausmann
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Ninth Day 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 Volker Schlöndorff 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 2004, 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 The Ninth Day took approximately 25 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 98 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 150 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 2192 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 2004, 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 The Ninth Day shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Sunday in August, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Ninth Day offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Dancer in the Dark and La Strada explore similar territory, The Ninth Day 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: August 5, 2004
- Runtime: 1h 38m
- Revenue: $72
Where to Watch
