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The Death of the White Stallion

The Death of the White Stallion (1985)

Oct 02, 1985 1h 51m Drama

This somewhat superficial historical drama is about the 1525 Peasants' War in Germany when the lower classes rebelled against oppressive conditions imposed by the clergy and nobility and then committed many acts (including atrocities) that did not morally set them far apart from the people they were fighting. It was a time of upheaval: Martin Luther (1483-1556) had broken away from the Catholic Church, calling for reform, and Anabaptists in Germany, like Thomas Munzer fought on the side of the peasants (opposed by Luther). This complex age and its political and religious turmoil are summed up in a story about an attack on a small monastery whose monks used a forged document to confiscate some land from the peasants. When their wrong-doing is revealed by the monk who forged the document in the first place, the peasants attack.

Directed by Christian Ziewer

Cast

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Thomas Anzenhofer
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Thomas Anzenhofer

as Veit Gall

Angela Schanelec
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Angela Schanelec

as Anna Gall

Udo Samel
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Udo Samel

as Pater Andreas, Benediktinermönch

Ulrich Wildgruber
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Ulrich Wildgruber

as Abt Georg, Kaufmann Frickinger

Dietmar Schönherr
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Dietmar Schönherr

as Ritter von Schenkenstein

Peter Franke
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Peter Franke

as Kilian Feuerbacher, Baumeister

Crew

Director
  • Christian Ziewer

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, The Death of the White Stallion 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 Christian Ziewer 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 1985, 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 The Death of the White Stallion took approximately 25 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 111 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 160 minutes long.
  • The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • The costume department created over 433 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.

Historical Context

  • In 1985, when this film was released:
  • Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
  • Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

Details

  • Release Date: October 2, 1985
  • Runtime: 1h 51m

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