Cast
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Guram Lortkipanidze
as Aguli Eristavi
Valentina Telichkina
as Glasha Ogurtsova
Vasili Chkhaidze
as Pipinia Eristavi
Dodo Abashidze
as Shavleg
Salome Kancheli
as Widow
Julieta Vashakmadze
as Tina
Shota Gabelaia
as Valodia Jincharadze
Victor Deisadze
as Mr. Bonaventur
Aleksandre Kelbalkiani
as Pestvenidze
Nikoloz Miqashavidze
as Khurtsidze
Akaki Doborjginidze
as Dmitry
Jaba Tsuladze
as Akim
Sesika Kuprashvili
as Widower
Nunu Machavariani
as Teacher
Mikhail Chikhladze
as Tina's Father
Crew
Director
- Eldar Shengelaia
Writer
- Revaz Gabriadze
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, An Unusual Exhibition 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 Eldar Shengelaia 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 1968, 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 An Unusual Exhibition took approximately 25 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 89 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 144 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1829 individual shots.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1968, when this film was released:
- The Vietnam War was becoming increasingly controversial.
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While An Unusual Exhibition shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Meet Joe Black, which focuses more on action than character development, An Unusual Exhibition subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Sissi: The Young Empress and Wintersleepers explore similar territory, An Unusual Exhibition 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: December 15, 1968
- Runtime: 1h 29m
Where to Watch
