Cast
View AllMarion Wiegmann
as Maja Wegner
Johanna Schall
as Carola Brehme
Siegfried Höchst
as Gerd „K“
Jaecki Schwarz
as Toni
Swetlana Schönfeld
as Sylvi
Achim Wolff
as Ali
Bernd Michael Lade
as Wilfried
Regine Albrecht
as Bardame
Hilmar Baumann
as Brettschneider
Eckhard Becker
as Dienstreisender
Hermann Beyer
as Dr. Mann
André Hennicke
as Bärtiger Student
Harry Merkel
as Brigademitglied
Gertraud Kreissig
as
Amina Gusner
as
Crew
Director
- Iris Gusner
Writer
- Roland Kästner
- Iris Gusner
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Kaskade rückwärts 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 Iris Gusner 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 1984, 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 Kaskade rückwärts took approximately 24 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 90 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 146 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
- The screenplay went through 15 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1984, when this film was released:
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Kaskade rückwärts shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Deliver Us from Eva, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Kaskade rückwärts offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Perfect Holiday and Lupercalia explore similar territory, Kaskade rückwärts stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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 10, 1984
- Runtime: 1h 30m
