Cast
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Ole Busck
as Tim
Kjeld Jacobsen
as Tim's father
Astrid Villaume
as Tim's mother
Katja Miehe-Renard
as Kate – Tim's sister
Birgit Bendix Madsen
as Jane – Tim's sister
Christian Gottschalch
as Tim's grandfather
Yvonne Ingdal
as Lis
Karen Marie Løwert
as Lis' mother
Jan Heinig Hansen
as Markus – Tim's friend
Birgit Brüel
as Markus' mother
Gregers Ussing
as Frank
Jørgen Beck
as Friend
Elsa Kourani
as Friend's wife
Henry Skjær
as Headmaster
Holger Perfort
as Gymnastics teacher
Crew
Director
- Palle Kjærulff-Schmidt
Writer
- Klaus Rifbjerg
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Once There Was a War 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 Palle Kjærulff-Schmidt 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 1966, 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 Once There Was a War took approximately 7 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 92 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 132 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1303 individual shots.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The musical score contains over 51 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1966, when this film was released:
- Counterculture movements were challenging traditional values.
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Once There Was a War shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Kids, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Once There Was a War subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Risky Business and Crazy explore similar territory, Once There Was a War stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: November 16, 1966
- Runtime: 1h 32m
