Cast
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Walter Pidgeon
as Col. Michael S. 'Hooky' Nicobar
Ethel Barrymore
as Mother Superior ('Mother Auxilia')
Peter Lawford
as Major John 'Twingo' McPhimister
Angela Lansbury
as Audrey Quail
Janet Leigh
as Olga Alexandrova aka Maria Buhlen
Louis Calhern
as Colonel Piniev
Francis L. Sullivan
as Colonel Humphrey 'Blinker' Omicron
Melville Cooper
as Private David Moonlight
Robert Coote
as Brigadier C.M.V. Catlock
Alan Napier
as The General
Roman Toporow
as 2nd Lt. Maxim Omansky
Kasia Orzazewski
as Sister Kasmira
Tamara Shayne
as Helena Nagard
Konstantin Shayne
as Professor Serge Bruloff
Janine Perreau
as Mickey Mouse
Crew
Director
- George Sidney
Producer
- Carey Wilson
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Red Danube 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 George Sidney 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 1949, 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 Red Danube took approximately 8 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 119 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 167 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The costume department created over 370 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The musical score contains over 31 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1949, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Red Danube shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike God Does Not Believe in Us Anymore, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Red Danube subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Gorky Park and Dog Days explore similar territory, The Red Danube 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: October 14, 1949
- Runtime: 1h 59m
