Cast
View AllBožidar Boban
as Boris
Jagoda Kaloper
as Vera
Kruno Valentić
as Milicajac
Marija Lojk
as Sonja
Slobodan Dimitrijević
as Ivan
Tana Mascarelli
as Amalija Jurak, bolesna starica
Fabijan Šovagović
as Marko
Branko Špoljar
as Liječnik
Stevo Krnjajić
as Ratoboran tip u kinu
Sven Lasta
as Muž
Ljubica Jović
as Žena
Zvonimir Rogoz
as Recepcioner
Vanja Drach
as Recepcioner
Relja Bašić
as Gost u hotelu
Crew
Director
- Antun Vrdoljak
- Krsto Papić
- Vanča Kljaković
Writer
- Krsto Papić
- Zvonimir Berković
- Fedor Vidas
- Antun Vrdoljak
- Branimir Šćepanović
- Vanča Kljaković
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Key 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 Antun Vrdoljak 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 1965, 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 Key took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 104 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 145 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
- The film contains approximately 2049 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1965, when this film was released:
- The Vietnam War was becoming increasingly controversial.
- Counterculture movements were challenging traditional values.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Key shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Mulholland Drive, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Key subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Some Other Stories and Paris Je T'aime explore similar territory, The Key stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: July 9, 1965
- Runtime: 1h 44m
