Cast
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Nina Hoss
as Nelly Lenz
Ronald Zehrfeld
as Johnny Lenz
Nina Kunzendorf
as Lene Winter
Trystan Pütter
as Soldat an Brücke
Michael Maertens
as Arzt
Imogen Kogge
as Elisabeth
Felix Römer
as Geiger
Uwe Preuss
as Clubbesitzer
Valerie Koch
as Tänzerin
Eva Bay
as Tänzerin
Jeff Burrell
as Soldat im Club
Nikola Kastner
as Junge Frau
Max Hopp
as Der Mann
Megan Gay
as Mitarbeiterin Zentralstelle Halensee
Kirsten Block
as Wirtin
Crew
Director
- Christian Petzold
Producer
- Michael Weber
- Florian Koerner von Gustorf
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Phoenix examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Christian Petzold 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 2014, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Phoenix took approximately 10 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 98 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 133 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
- The film contains approximately 2321 individual shots.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 2014, when this film is released:
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Phoenix shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Hazel's People, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Phoenix offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Carrie and There Will Be Blood explore similar territory, Phoenix 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: September 25, 2014
- Runtime: 1h 38m
- Revenue: $3,184,472
Where to Watch
