Backdrop preview Fantastica backdrop
Fantastica

Fantastica (1980)

May 07, 1980 1h 51m Drama Music

In this French–Canadian oddity of music and drama, an actress in a traveling musical revue is involved with the show's director until she meets and falls for an aging ecological activist. He too is drawn to her, and together they try to stop a factory from being built over an old-growth forest.

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Directed by Gilles Carle

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Gilles Carle
Writer
  • Gilles Carle

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Fantastica 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 Gilles Carle 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 1980, 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 Fantastica took approximately 34 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • With a budget of $2.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 111 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 166 minutes long.
  • The musical score contains over 38 unique compositions.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
  • The film contains approximately 2123 individual shots.

Historical Context

  • In 1980, when this film was released:
  • Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
  • The Cold War was entering its final phase.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

Details

  • Release Date: May 7, 1980
  • Runtime: 1h 51m
  • Budget: $2,000,000

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