Cast
View AllGert van der Bergh
as Lourens Niemand
Marie du Toit
as Paula Neethling
Cobus Rossouw
as Anton du Toit
Hermien Dommisse
as Anna Volschenk
Roelf Jacobs
as Dr. Jan le Roux
Bernadette da Silva
as Jackie Smith
Tromp Terre'blanche
as Prof. Hannes van Biljon
Don Leonard
as Krisjan
Regardt van den Bergh
as Kallie
Jacques Loots
as Dominee Perold
Lourens Schultz
as H.P. Greeff
Gerrie du Pré
as Isak
Wilhelm Esterhuizen
as Ooem Essie Esterhuizen
Andries Roux
as Herman Botha
Madel Venter
as Receptionist
Crew
Director
- Jans Rautenbach
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Candidate 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 Jans Rautenbach 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 The Candidate took approximately 4 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 148 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2216 individual shots.
- The musical score contains over 60 unique compositions.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1968, when this film was released:
- Counterculture movements were challenging traditional values.
- Social and cultural revolution was transforming Western societies.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Candidate shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Mississippi Burning, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Candidate subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Crash and A Time to Kill explore similar territory, The Candidate stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: May 27, 1968
- Runtime: 1h 45m
