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Did Somebody Laugh?
8.4

Did Somebody Laugh? (1978)

Sep 14, 1978 1h 42m Drama

The late 1930s. A young enemployed, unskilled worker walks through the streets of Copenhagen, sustaining himself partly on the dole and free soup-kitchen meals and partly on day-dreams. He spends time at a cemetry studying headstone inscriptions. Mild-mannered and of poetic bent, he understands little of an intellectual friend's advice and shies away from the love of a woman who shares her bed with him.

Directed by Henning Carlsen

Cast

Kirsten Olesen
Kirsten Olesen

Elisabeth

Jesper Christensen
Jesper Christensen

Den arbejdsløse

Jesper Christensen
Jesper Christensen

Vægtløftermennesket

Karl Stegger
Karl Stegger

Nuslemennesket

Otto Brandenburg
Otto Brandenburg

Graveren

Sejr Volmer-Sørensen
Sejr Volmer-Sørensen

Vorherre/Kontormanden

Jesper Klein
Jesper Klein

Filipensmennesket

Ellen Margrethe Stein
Ellen Margrethe Stein

Tanten

Else Højgaard
Else Højgaard

Ella

Peer Guldbrandsen
Peer Guldbrandsen

Tobakshandleren

Crew

Director
  • Henning Carlsen

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Did Somebody Laugh? 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 Henning Carlsen 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 1978, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Did Somebody Laugh? took approximately 33 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 102 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 160 minutes long.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The film contains approximately 1889 individual shots.
  • The screenplay went through 14 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.

Historical Context

  • In 1978, when this film was released:
  • Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
  • Disco music dominated popular culture.
  • The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.

How This Film Stands Out

Details

  • Release Date: September 14, 1978
  • Runtime: 1h 42m

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