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Artificial Paradise
8.0

Artificial Paradise (1990)

May 29, 1990 1h 38m Drama

Los Angeles in 1935. Fritz Lang receives in his hotel apartment the young film amateur Willy, who wants to prepare an interview with him. At a certain moment Lang starts relating how, as an army officer in the First World War, he spent some time in the house of the lawyer Karol Gatnik in a small town in the northeast of Slovenia. Lang makes friends with Gatnik and gets aquainted with all members of his family. When Lang finds out that Gatnik is a passionate film amateur and that he also possesses his own camera, they make a film together. This is probably Lang’s first contact with cinematography. Late at night Lang looks at the photographs in Los Angeles and revives in his spirit the imaginary meeting with his friend Gatnik.

Directed by Karpo Aćimović Godina

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Karpo Aćimović Godina
Writer
  • Branko Vučićević

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Artificial Paradise 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 Karpo Aćimović Godina 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 1990, 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 Artificial Paradise took approximately 3 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 98 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 149 minutes long.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The musical score contains over 50 unique compositions.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.

Historical Context

  • In 1990, when this film was released:
  • The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
  • The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

While Artificial Paradise shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Basquiat, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Artificial Paradise subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Capote and Raging Bull explore similar territory, Artificial Paradise 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: May 29, 1990
  • Runtime: 1h 38m

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