Cast
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Bruno Ganz
as Jacques Tüverlin
Franziska Walser
as Johanna Krain
Peter Simonischek
as Dr. Martin Krüger
Mathieu Carrière
as Erich Bornhaak
Manfred Zapatka
as Kaspar Pröckl
Thomas Holtzmann
as Dr. Franz Flaucher
Jutta Speidel
as Katharina von Radolny
Gerd Anthoff
as Paul Hessreither
Günter Mack
as Förtsch
Dietrich Mattausch
as Dr. Hartl - Amtsgerichtspräsident
Toni Berger
as Baron Reindl
Gustl Bayrhammer
as Vorsitzender Disziplinarausschuß
Wilfried Klaus
as Staatsanwalt
Anton Feichtner
as Franz-Xaver Ratzenberger
Elfriede Kuzmany
as Mathilde Berath
Crew
Director
- Franz Seitz Jr.
Writer
- Franz Seitz Jr.
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Success 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 Franz Seitz Jr. 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 1991, 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 Success took approximately 36 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 265 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 312 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
- The musical score contains over 78 unique compositions.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1991, when this film was released:
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Success shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Before the Fall, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Success subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Franz + Polina and The Aftermath explore similar territory, Success 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 28, 1991
- Runtime: 4h 25m
