Backdrop preview Country Hotel backdrop
Country Hotel

Country Hotel (1957)

Sep 21, 1957 2h 18m Crime Comedy

Noi runs a rural bar and guesthouse called the Paradise Hotel. He tends bar and arm wrestles any challengers. The hotel, which has only one room, already has a guest, a man named Chana. Chana is annoyed that the hotel plays host to various musical groups, including a man who sings European opera, another man who practices the trombone, a Peking opera troupe, a Filipina ballad singer and a brass band that accompanies two bare-knuckles boxers.

Directed by Rattana Pestonji

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Rattana Pestonji
Writer
  • Rattana Pestonji
Producer
  • Rattana Pestonji

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Thematic Analysis

Country Hotel represents a fascinating example of Crime/Comedy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Rattana Pestonji 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 1957, 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 Country Hotel took approximately 28 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 138 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 175 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
  • The film contains approximately 1084 individual shots.
  • The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.

Historical Context

  • In 1957, when this film was released:
  • Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
  • The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
  • The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.

How This Film Stands Out

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

Unlike Crocodile Dundee, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Country Hotel subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like New York Stories and 6.9 on the Richter Scale explore similar territory, Country Hotel stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: September 21, 1957
  • Runtime: 2h 18m

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