Cast
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Harvey Keitel
as Steve Arnold
Stellan Skarsgård
as Wilhelm Furtwängler
Moritz Bleibtreu
as David Wills
R. Lee Ermey
as General Wallace
Birgit Minichmayr
as Emmi Straube
Ulrich Tukur
as Helmut Rode
Oleg Tabakov
as Colonel Dymshitz
Hanns Zischler
as Rudolf Werner
Armin Rohde
as Schlee
Daniel White
as Sergeant Adams
August Zirner
as Ed Martin
Thomas Thieme
as Reichsminister
Jed Curtis
as Colonel Green
Garrick Hagon
as Major Richards
Robin Renucci
as Captain Vernay
Crew
Director
- István Szabó
Producer
- Yves Pasquier
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Taking Sides 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 István Szabó 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 2002, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Taking Sides took approximately 29 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $20.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 108 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 146 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 56 unique compositions.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 2002, when this film is released:
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: March 7, 2002
- Runtime: 1h 48m
- Budget: $20,000,000
Where to Watch
