Cast
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Sibel Kekilli
as Sibel Güner
Birol Ünel
as Cahit Tomruk
Güven Kıraç
as Seref
Meltem Cumbul
as Selma
Adam Bousdoukos
as Barmann
Mehmet Kurtuluş
as Barmann Istanbul
Stefan Gebelhoff
as Nico
Catrin Striebeck
as Maren
Demir Gökgöl
as Yunus Güner
Cem Akin
as Yilmaz Güner
Aysel İşcan
as Birsen Güner
Orhan Güner
as Bus Driver
Hermann Lause
as Dr. Schiller
Selim Erdoğan
as Taxi Driver
Tim Seyfi
as Bavarian Taxi Driver
Crew
Director
- Fatih Akin
Producer
- Ralph Schwingel
- Mehmet Kurtuluş
- Andreas Schreitmüller
- Jeanette Würl
- Fatih Akin
- Stefan Schubert
- Andreas Thiel
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Head-On 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 Fatih Akin 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 2004, 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 Head-On took approximately 17 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 117 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 138 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
- The film contains approximately 1469 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 2004, when this film is released:
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Head-On shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Miz Cracker's Favorite Haunts, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Head-On subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Landscape with Invisible Hand and Love Everlasting explore similar territory, Head-On 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: March 11, 2004
- Runtime: 1h 57m
- Revenue: $11,030,861
Where to Watch
