Cast
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Ariane Ascaride
as Anne Gueguen
Ahmed Dramé
as Malik
Noémie Merlant
as Mélanie
Geneviève Mnich
as Yvette Thomas
Stéphane Bak
as Max
Wendy Nieto
as Jamila
Aïmen Derriachi
as Saïd
Mohamed Seddiki
as Olivier / Brahim
Adrien Hurdubae
as Théo
Alicia Dadoun
as Camélia
Naomi Amarger
as Julie
Amine Lansari
as Rudy
Thomas Bénéteau
as Thomas
Xavier Maly
as Principal
Léon Zyguel
as Léon Zyguel
Crew
Director
- Marie-Castille Mention-Schaar
Writer
- Marie-Castille Mention-Schaar
- Ahmed Dramé
Producer
- Marie-Castille Mention-Schaar
- Pierre Kubel
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Once in a Lifetime examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Marie-Castille Mention-Schaar 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 2014, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Once in a Lifetime took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 105 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 145 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 2164 individual shots.
- The screenplay went through 10 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 2014, when this film is released:
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Once in a Lifetime shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Little Paris, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Once in a Lifetime offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Felicity: An American Girl Adventure and Ernstfall in Havanna explore similar territory, Once in a Lifetime 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: December 3, 2014
- Runtime: 1h 45m
Where to Watch
