Cast
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Melina Mercouri
as Nina Kacewa
Assi Dayan
as Romain Kacew age 25
Didier Haudepin
as Romain Kacew age 15
François Raffoul
as Romain Kacew age 9
Despo Diamantidou
as Aniela
Jean Martin
as Igor Igorevitch
Fernand Gravey
as Jean-Michel Serusier
Jacqueline Porel
as Madame Mailer
Elspeth March
as Fat Woman
Maria Machado
as Nathalie Lissenko
Julie Dassin
as Romain's Friend
René Clermont
as Mr. Piekielny
Carol Cole
as Louison, nurse
Marina Nestora
as Mariette
Audrey Berindey
as Valentine Mailer
Crew
Director
- Jules Dassin
Writer
- Jules Dassin
Producer
- Jules Dassin
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Promise at Dawn 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 Jules Dassin 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 1970, 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 Promise at Dawn took approximately 27 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 102 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 154 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 943 individual shots.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1970, when this film was released:
- Disco music dominated popular culture.
- Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Promise at Dawn shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Hottest State, which focuses more on action than character development, Promise at Dawn subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Morvern Callar and Through My Window: Across the Sea explore similar territory, Promise at Dawn stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: November 25, 1970
- Runtime: 1h 42m
