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Golden Door

Golden Door (2006)

Sep 22, 2006 1h 58m History Drama Romance

The story is set at the beginning of the 20th century in Sicily. Salvatore, a very poor farmer, and a widower, decides to emigrate to the US with all his family, including his old mother. Before they embark, they meet Lucy. She is supposed to be a British lady and wants to come back to the States. Lucy, or Luce as Salvatore calls her, for unknown reasons wants to marry someone before to arrive to Ellis Island in New York. Salvatore accepts the proposal. Once they arrive in Ellis Island they spend the quarantine period trying to pass the examinations to be admitted to the States. Tests are not so simple for poor farmers coming from Sicily. Their destiny is in the hands of the custom officers.

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Directed by Emanuele Crialese

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Emanuele Crialese
Producer
  • Fabrizio Mosca
  • Alexandre Mallet-Guy
  • Emanuele Crialese

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Golden Door 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 Emanuele Crialese 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 2006, 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 Golden Door took approximately 7 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 118 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 171 minutes long.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
  • The film contains approximately 1824 individual shots.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.

Historical Context

  • In 2006, when this film is released:
  • The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
  • Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
  • Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.

How This Film Stands Out

While Golden Door shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Maria and the Lost Movie, which focuses more on action than character development, Golden Door offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Things to Do in Denver When You're Dead and The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou explore similar territory, Golden Door 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: September 22, 2006
  • Runtime: 1h 58m