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Don't Tell

Don't Tell (2005)

Mar 17, 2005 1h 56m Drama

Sabina has a regular life. She is satisfied with her job and her love for Franco. Lately nightmares start disturbing her, and almost in the same time she discovers to be pregnant. Step by step she remembers her childhood spent within a severe middle-class family. But a big secret is hidden within her heart. Sabina wants to contact again her brother, a University teacher in the US, to try to understand what is happened in their past. What is the secret? She is determined to bring clarity and serenity in her life. She finally manages to free herself from her "beast in the heart".

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Directed by Cristina Comencini

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Cristina Comencini
Writer
  • Cristina Comencini
  • Francesca Marciano
  • Giulia Calenda
Producer
  • Marco Chimenz
  • Fabio Conversi
  • Terence S. Potter
  • Jacqueline Quella
  • Giovanni Stabilini
  • Riccardo Tozzi

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Don't Tell 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 Cristina Comencini 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 2005, 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 Don't Tell took approximately 25 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 116 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 160 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
  • The musical score contains over 36 unique compositions.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.

Historical Context

  • In 2005, when this film is released:
  • The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
  • Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
  • Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.

How This Film Stands Out

While Don't Tell shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Oppressed Majority, which focuses more on action than character development, Don't Tell subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like O'er the Land and The Death of Empedocles explore similar territory, Don't Tell stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

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: March 17, 2005
  • Runtime: 1h 56m

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