Cast
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Eduards Pavuls
as Ceplis
Helga Dancberga
as Berta
Gunārs Cilinskis
as Nagainis
Regīna Razuma
as Austra Zīle
Aivars Silins
as Edmunds Sausais
Velta Straume
as Valentīna
Rolands Zagorskis
as Caune
Lidija Freimane
as Sausene
Arturs Dimiters
as Sesks
Uldis Dumpis
as Briedis
Oļgerts Kroders
as deputāts Kļaviņš
Rostislav Goryayev
as deputāts Cīrulis
Juris Strenga
as Dziļupietis
Imants Adermanis
as Zutis
Līga Liepiņa
as Zuša kundze
Crew
Director
- Rolands Kalnins
Writer
- Viktors Lorencs
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Ceplis 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 Rolands Kalnins 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 1972, 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 Ceplis took approximately 11 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 90 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 124 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 8 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1972, when this film was released:
- Disco music dominated popular culture.
- Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Ceplis shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Power of the Dog, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Ceplis subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Chicago and Fireheart explore similar territory, Ceplis 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: January 3, 1972
- Runtime: 1h 30m
