Cast
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Tito Gobbi
as Mario Vanni
Ellen Rasch
as Linda Corina
Eva Henning
as Alice Lund
Bengt Blomgren
as Frank
Georg Rydeberg
as Jascha Sacharowitch
Åke Falck
as Spinky
Märta Arbin
as Frank's mother
Alan Blair
as Johan A. Sjöberg, Linda's doctor
Märta Dorff
as Seamstress
Gull Natorp
as Tilda
Ragnar Hyltén-Cavallius
as Dinner guest
Gerd Andersson
as Dancer
Margherita Bossi
as
Maurice Béjart
as
Sven-Erik Jacobsson
as
Crew
Director
- Hasse Ekman
Writer
- Hasse Ekman
Producer
- Lorens Marmstedt
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Firebird 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 Hasse Ekman 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 1952, 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 Firebird took approximately 20 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 99 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 135 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1952, 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 The Firebird shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Donde mueren las palabras, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Firebird subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Farinelli and Anna Karenina explore similar territory, The Firebird 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: August 11, 1952
- Runtime: 1h 39m
