Cast
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Emma Penella
as Prostituta
José Luis Ozores
as Borracho
Antonio Ozores
as Ladrón
Carlos Ballesteros
as Amante de Ana
Mabel Karr
as Ana
Enrique Vilches
as Señor del gato
Mercedes Muñoz Sampedro
as Sofía
Mari Carmen Prendes
as Remedios
Elisa Montés
as Chica almacenes
Rafael Arcos
as Director almacenes
Carlos Estrada
as Fugitivo
Luis Prendes
as Policia
Fernando Rey
as Sacerdote
Julia Martínez
as María
Jesús Puente
as Marido de María
Crew
Director
- Mariano Ozores
Writer
- Mariano Ozores
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, La hora incógnita 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 Mariano Ozores 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 1964, 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 La hora incógnita took approximately 24 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 144 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1964, when this film was released:
- The Vietnam War was becoming increasingly controversial.
- 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 La hora incógnita shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Ivan the Terrible, Part I, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, La hora incógnita subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Madea's Family Reunion and Saving God explore similar territory, La hora incógnita 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: December 26, 1964
- Runtime: 1h 40m
