Cast
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Michael Lonsdale
as Bertrand Haines-Pearson
Carol Kane
as Louise Haines-Pearson
Katia Wastchenko
as La petite fille
Marina Vlady
as La mère de la petite fille
Emmanuelle Riva
as Une invitée
Roberto Plate
as Le voyageur / Le voleur / L'étranger
Marilú Marini
as La comtesse Dolingen de Gratz / La bonne
Robert Stephens
as Le professeur
Marucha Bo
as Nena
Antoine Binet
as Le frère
Raoul Escari
as Argentin 1
Tobie Schumer
as Argentin 2
Carine Toly
as La belle dame
Nathalie Goldnadel
as La fille pubère
François Mouren-Provensal
as L'homme sur la plage
Crew
Director
- Catherine Binet
Writer
- Catherine Binet
Producer
- Jacques Zajdermann
- Annick Colomes
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Games of Countess Dolingen 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 Catherine Binet 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 1981, 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 The Games of Countess Dolingen took approximately 22 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 106 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 152 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 3 months to complete.
- The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The film contains approximately 1172 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1981, when this film was released:
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: September 1, 1981
- Runtime: 1h 46m