Backdrop preview Disgrace backdrop
Disgrace

Disgrace (2008)

Sep 06, 2008 2h Drama

Disgrace is the story of a South African professor of English who loses everything: his reputation, his job, his peace of mind, his good looks, his dreams of artistic success, and finally even his ability to protect his cherished daughter. After having an affair with a student, he moves to the Eastern Cape, where he gets caught up in a mess of post-apartheid politics.

Watch Trailer
Directed by Steve Jacobs

Cast

View All

Crew

Director
  • Steve Jacobs
Writer
  • J.M. Coetzee

Reviews

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

Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Disgrace 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 Steve Jacobs 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 2008, 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 Disgrace took approximately 19 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 120 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 159 minutes long.
  • The musical score contains over 61 unique compositions.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.

Historical Context

  • In 2008, when this film is released:
  • Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
  • 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 Disgrace shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike People in the Summer Night, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Disgrace offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Smilla's Sense of Snow and Nineteen Eighty-Four explore similar territory, Disgrace 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: September 6, 2008
  • Runtime: 2h