Cast
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Alessandra Panaro
as Cynthia Montague
Marie Versini
as principessa Dhara
Mimmo Palmara
as Sandok
Giacomo Rossi Stuart
as Reginald Milliner
Arturo Dominici
as Bramu
Sean Flynn
as tenente Richard Ramsey
Dakar
as guida
Redilly B. Rajapa
as principe Baram
Andrea Bosic
as colonnello
Seyna Seyn
as Sara
Giorgio Cerioni
as John Willoughby
Giovanni Cianfriglia
as Krishna
Enzo Fiermonte
as sergente maggiore
Fortunato Arena
as membro della setta
Nello Pazzafini
as membro della setta
Crew
Director
- Umberto Lenzi
Producer
- Solly V. Bianco
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Temple of the White Elephant 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 Umberto Lenzi 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 1964, 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 Temple of the White Elephant took approximately 3 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 85 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 138 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The film contains approximately 1234 individual shots.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1964, when this film was released:
- Counterculture movements were challenging traditional values.
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Temple of the White Elephant shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Dragonfly, which focuses more on action than character development, Temple of the White Elephant subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Jumanji and Caligula explore similar territory, Temple of the White Elephant stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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 28, 1964
- Runtime: 1h 25m
