Cast
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Nina Hoss
as Anonyma
Evgeniy Sidikhin
as Major Andreij Rybkin
Juliane Köhler
as Elke
August Diehl
as Gerd
Irm Hermann
as Witwe
Rüdiger Vogler
as Eckhart
Ulrike Krumbiegel
as Ilse Hoch
Isabell Gerschke
as Lisbeth
Rolf Kanies
as Friedrich Hoch
Jördis Triebel
as Bärbel Maltaus
Roman Gribkov
as Anatol
Erni Mangold
as Achtzigjährige Frau
Anne Kanis
as Flüchtlingsmädchen
Samvel Muzhikyan
as Andropov
Hermann Beyer
as Dr. Wolf
Crew
Director
- Max Färberböck
Producer
- Günter Rohrbach
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, A Woman in Berlin 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 Max Färberböck 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 A Woman in Berlin took approximately 5 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 131 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 184 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 131 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The screenplay went through 9 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- 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:
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- 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 A Woman in Berlin shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Pearl Harbor, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, A Woman in Berlin offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Dead Man Walking and The Bridges of Madison County explore similar territory, A Woman in Berlin 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: October 23, 2008
- Runtime: 2h 11m
- Revenue: $1,863,939
Where to Watch
