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John Gabriel Borkman

John Gabriel Borkman (1982)

Jan 04, 1982 2h 50m TV Movie Drama

John Gabriel Borkman, a former bank director, was imprisoned for fraud but believes he was wrongly convicted. He had invested clients' money in a major industrial venture but was reported by his friend Hinkel, who was in love with Borkman's former fiancée, Ella Rentheim. Borkman now lives on the first floor of the house, with his estranged wife, Gunhild, living on the ground floor. He occasionally receives visits from his friend Wilhelm Foldal, who supports Borkman's delusion that the bank will reinstate him. In his youth, Borkman betrayed his love for Ella by marrying her twin sister Gunhild to advance his career. After his conviction, Ella took care of their son Erhart and now wants him to live with her and take her name. Borkman agrees, but Gunhild refuses to let her sister take their son.

Directed by Luca Ronconi

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Luca Ronconi
Writer
  • Henrik Ibsen

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, John Gabriel Borkman 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 Luca Ronconi 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 1982, 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 John Gabriel Borkman took approximately 33 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 170 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 207 minutes long.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The film contains approximately 1885 individual shots.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.

Historical Context

  • In 1982, when this film was released:
  • MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
  • Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

While John Gabriel Borkman shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike The Great Lillian Hall, which focuses more on action than character development, John Gabriel Borkman offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like La Flambée and Two for the Seesaw explore similar territory, John Gabriel Borkman 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: January 4, 1982
  • Runtime: 2h 50m

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