Cast
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Gheorghe Dinică
as Mitică
Ştefan Iordache
as Panait
Marin Moraru
as Sandu
Valentin Uritescu
as Vasile
Claudiu Bleonţ
as Boy
Patricia Grigoriu
as
Vladimir Juravle
as Bărbulescu
Theodor Danetti
as Aristide
Cătălina Murgea
as Tatiana
Adriana Şchiopu
as Lavinia
Irina Mazanitis
as Jenița
Ion Cocieru
as Bus Driver
Jorj Voicu
as Simon
Vasile Nițulescu
as Painter
Oana Pellea
as Oana
Crew
Director
- Dan Pița
Writer
- Dan Pița
Producer
- Grid Modorcea
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Contest 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 Dan Pița 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 1982, 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 Contest took approximately 6 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 95 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 127 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 1208 individual shots.
- The costume department created over 264 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1982, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Contest 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 Bridge, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Contest subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Sounds of Sand and The Bear explore similar territory, Contest 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: February 4, 1982
- Runtime: 1h 35m
