Cast
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Rafael Rivelles
as Judas
Francisco Rabal
as Quinto Licinio
Gérard Tichy
as Poncio Pilato
Fernando Sancho
as Padre del condenado
José Nieto
as Eliazim
Manuel Monroy
as Pedro
Félix Dafauce
as Misael
Francisco Arenzana
as Dimas
Gabriel Alcover
as Jesús
Pedro Anzola
as Juan
Luis Hurtado
as Caifás
Mercedes Albert
as Verónica
Jacinto San Emeterio
as Hombre frente a la cruz
Santiago Rivero
as Hombre frente a la cruz
Tony Hernández
as Saúl
Crew
Director
- Rafael Gil
Writer
- Vicente Escrivá
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Judas' Kiss 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 Rafael Gil 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 1954, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Judas' Kiss took approximately 24 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 90 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 134 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1954, when this film was released:
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Judas' Kiss shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Open Your Eyes, which focuses more on action than character development, Judas' Kiss subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Princesses and Amigos hasta la muerte explore similar territory, Judas' Kiss stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: February 27, 1954
- Runtime: 1h 30m
