Cast
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Wacław Ulewicz
as I sekretarz Komitetu Wojewódzkiego w Radomiu
Mirosław Siedler
as Działacz KOR
Tadeusz Bartosik
as członek egzekutywy KW w Radomiu
Paweł Nowisz
as Henio, kierowca I sekretarza
Zbigniew Bielski
as Robotnik budujący barykadę
Elżbieta Kijowska
as Bogusia, sekretarka I sekretarza
Lech Grzmociński
as Komendant wojewódzki MO w Radomiu
Marek Kępiński
as Szef kancelarii KW w Radomiu
Barbara Dziekan
as Żona mężczyzny rozwalającego hasło
Leon Charewicz
as Robotnik pod budynkiem KW
Wojciech Pilarski
as Sędzia
Tadeusz Mazowiecki
as Obserwator procesu
Michał Szewczyk
as Kapitan z komendy wojewódzkiej MO
Crew
Director
- Krzysztof Kieślowski
Writer
- Krzysztof Kieślowski
Producer
- Andrzej Rafał Waltenberger
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Short Working Day 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 Krzysztof Kieślowski 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 1995, 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 Short Working Day took approximately 6 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 73 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 97 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1355 individual shots.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1995, when this film was released:
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Short Working 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 Eight Miles High, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Short Working Day subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Dreamers and May Fools explore similar territory, Short Working 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 bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: November 2, 1995
- Runtime: 1h 13m
