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A Stroke of Luck

A Stroke of Luck (2016)

Dec 02, 2016 1h 30m Romance Drama Comedy

Villaviciosa de al Lado is a peaceful town stuck in time, living exclusively of the fame of a 200 years-old spa. Therefore, city hall's debts threatens to close the spa and ruin all town. Their salvation becomes when suddenly mayor Anselmo and the rest of members of city hall realize that they won the Christmas Lottery. But their happiness turns in horror after to discover that the prize belongs to a serial number distributed by the town's brothel, causing the suspicion of the wives and fear of the husbands after a TV interview where Mari, brothel's owner, claims that the almost men of the town will have prize from the lottery. Wanting a way to charge the prize to save the town without having to suffer the anger of their respective women, Anselmo, Ricardo, César, Juandi and Paco plots a plan in order to steal the money from the brothel, meanwhile Mari tries reconcile her stranded life and restore the memory of her deceased father, a former mayor.

Directed by Nacho G. Velilla

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Nacho G. Velilla
Writer
  • Oriol Capel
  • David S. Olivas
  • Antonio Sánchez
  • Nacho G. Velilla
Producer
  • Mikel Lejarza

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, A Stroke of Luck 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 Nacho G. Velilla 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 2016, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of A Stroke of Luck took approximately 24 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • With a budget of $3.5 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 90 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 150 minutes long.
  • The musical score contains over 46 unique compositions.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
  • The film contains approximately 975 individual shots.

Historical Context

  • In 2016, when this film is released:
  • Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
  • Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

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

Unlike The Inheritors, which focuses more on action than character development, A Stroke of Luck offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Sommersby and In My Father's Den explore similar territory, A Stroke of Luck stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

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: December 2, 2016
  • Runtime: 1h 30m
  • Budget: $3,500,000
  • Revenue: $12,304,617

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