Cast
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Til Schweiger
as Bertie
Tina Ruland
as Uschi
Stefan Gebelhoff
as Gerd
Sabine Berg
as Florentine
Michael Kessler
as Klausi
Nadja Naidenow
as Angie
Ömer Simsek
as Hakan
Beatrice Manowski
as Sabine
Martin Armknecht
as Axel
Karin Johnson
as Axels Freundin
Uwe Fellensiek
as Helmut
Jürgen Schornagel
as Herr Ecker
Jockel Tschiersch
as Radio-DJ
Olaf Ploetz
as Vorsitzender des Taubenvereins
Liz Becker
as Berties Mutter
Crew
Director
- Wolfgang Büld
Producer
- Peter Zenk
- Martin Moszkowicz
- Bernd Eichinger
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Comedy/Action film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Manta, Manta distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Wolfgang Büld 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1991, 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 Manta, Manta took approximately 7 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 91 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 148 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 8 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The costume department created over 273 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1991, when this film was released:
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Manta, Manta shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Mambo Italiano, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Manta, Manta subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Bang, Boom, Bang and The Idiots explore similar territory, Manta, Manta 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: October 3, 1991
- Runtime: 1h 31m
