Cast
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Goran Višnjić
as Ivan Kolar 'Iva'
Mustafa Nadarević
as Španac
Katarina Bistrović-Darvaš
as Vera Kolar
Ivo Gregurević
as Major
Goran Navojec
as Matija Čačić 'Mata'
Tarik Filipović
as Joka
Boris Dvornik
as Luka Kolar
Vera Zima
as Kata Kolar
Žarko Potočnjak
as Alojz
Alen Liverić
as Josef Schmit
Goran Grgić
as Franz Kirchmeier
Krešimir Mikić
as Robert Neuman
Matko Raguž
as Bartol
Vili Matula
as Obersturmfuhrer Ressler
Boris Svrtan
as Hauptscharfuhrer Sandel
Crew
Director
- Antun Vrdoljak
Writer
- Antun Vrdoljak
Producer
- Antun Vrdoljak
- Goran Višnjić
- Mirko Galić
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Long Dark Night 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 Antun Vrdoljak 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 2004, 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 Long Dark Night took approximately 3 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 194 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 220 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The musical score contains over 59 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2004, when this film is released:
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Long Dark Night shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Liberation: Battle for Berlin, which focuses more on action than character development, Long Dark Night subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Liberation: The Last Assault and White Bird explore similar territory, Long Dark Night stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: March 7, 2004
- Runtime: 3h 14m
