Cast
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Aleksei Lyarsky
as Aleksei Peshkov
Varvara Massalitinova
as Akulina Ivanva Kashirin
Mikhail Troyanovsky
as Vasili Vasilyevich Kashirin
Yelizaveta Alekseyeva
as Varvara Kashirina Peshkova
Aleksandr Zhukov
as Mikhail Kashirin, an uncle
K. Zubkov
as Old Grigori
Daniil Sagal
as Vanya, aka 'Gypsy'
Sergey Tikhonravov
as The Lodger
Crew
Director
- Mark Donskoy
Writer
- Mark Donskoy
- Ilya Gruzdev
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Childhood of Maxim Gorky 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 Mark Donskoy 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 1938, 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 The Childhood of Maxim Gorky took approximately 6 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 100 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 151 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The film contains approximately 983 individual shots.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1938, 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
Details
- Release Date: September 27, 1938
- Runtime: 1h 40m