Cast
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Sigfred Johansen
as Hr. Petit
Grethe Holmer
as Fru Petit
Randi Michelsen
as Naboens kone
Karin Nellemose
as Marianne Boris
Inge Hvid-Møller
as Bertha Gautier
Tove Bang
as Isabelle
Lisbeth Movin
as Marguerite Palsler
Betty Helsengreen
as Henriette Palsler
Betty Söderberg
as Fru Picot
Jon Branner
as Franz Picot
Lily Broberg
as Stuepigen Lisson
Jytte Møller
as Fleure
Jessie Rindom
as Guvernanten
William Jarlbak
as Pateren
Preben Lerdorff Rye
as
Crew
Director
- Alice O'Fredericks
Producer
- Henning Karmark
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Hr. Petit 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 Alice O'Fredericks 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 1948, 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 Hr. Petit took approximately 32 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 101 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 139 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 43 unique compositions.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 14 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1948, when this film was released:
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Hr. Petit shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Murder: No Apparent Motive, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Hr. Petit subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Tell No One and Halloween explore similar territory, Hr. Petit 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: September 20, 1948
- Runtime: 1h 41m
