Cast
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Francisco Franco
as Self (archive footage)
Philippe Pétain
as Self (archive footage)
Imperio Argentina
as Self (archive footage)
Lola Flores
as Self (archive footage)
José Isbert
as Don Pablo (archive footage) (uncredited)
Adolf Hitler
as Self (archive footage) (uncredited)
Manuel Azaña
as Self (archive footage) (uncredited)
Camilo José Cela
as Self (archive footage) (uncredited)
Winston Churchill
as Self (archive footage) (uncredited)
Gary Cooper
as Self (archive footage) (uncredited)
Salvador Dalí
as Self (archive footage) (uncredited)
Joan Fontaine
as Self (archive footage) (uncredited)
Cary Grant
as Self (archive footage) (uncredited)
Rita Hayworth
as Self (archive footage) (uncredited)
Danny Kaye
as Self (archive footage) (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Basilio Martín Patino
Writer
- José Luis García Sánchez
- Basilio Martín Patino
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Songs for After a War represents a fascinating example of Documentary/History/Music 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 Basilio Martín Patino 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 1976, 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 Songs for After a War took approximately 10 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 101 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 157 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The costume department created over 360 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1976, when this film was released:
- The Watergate scandal changed public perception of political institutions.
- Disco music dominated popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Songs for After a War shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Behind Natacha Rambova's Shadow, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Songs for After a War offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Mirror and Las Hurdes, país de leyenda explore similar territory, Songs for After a War 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: February 9, 1976
- Runtime: 1h 41m
