Backdrop preview Svešais backdrop
Svešais

Svešais (1989)

Apr 14, 1989 1h 6m Drama TV Movie

In the center of a small town there is a liquor store, every day a long line of people rubs impatiently by it. Thirteen-year-old Zigis sees his father here more and more often. The faces of many alcoholics have already been stamped by degradation, there is indifference in their eyes, they have lost interest in life. The boy realizes that such a terrible future also awaits the person closest to him. Not expecting to get help from anyone, Zigis decides on an unusual step: he goes to Marta, a popular healer, to save his father. On the way, the boy meets different people and experiences different attitudes towards himself, gets to know the contradictions of life.

Directed by Lūcija Ločmele

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Lūcija Ločmele
Writer
  • Māris Putniņš
  • Alvis Lapins
Producer
  • Jānis Grunte
  • Viktors Riepša

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Svešais 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 Lūcija Ločmele 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 1989, 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 Svešais took approximately 4 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 66 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 102 minutes long.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
  • The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • The costume department created over 473 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 1989, when this film was released:
  • The Cold War was entering its final phase.
  • Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

Details

  • Release Date: April 14, 1989
  • Runtime: 1h 6m

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