Cast
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Raimo Karppinen
as Arto Arsi
Jan Söderblom
as Arto Arsi as a child
Tarmo Manni
as Sergei Rippas
Rea Mauranen
as Suvi Ekman
Eeva-Maija Haukinen
as Arto's Mother
Kimmo Otsamo
as Arto's Brother
Per Oscarsson
as Eino
Jayne Meadows
as Mrs. Thomas
Marta Becket
as Ballet dancer
Lew Hopson
as Big Morgan
Virginia Capers
as Singing prisoner
Eri Klas
as Conductor
Atso Almila
as Conductor
Jukka-Pekka Saraste
as Conductor
Pamela Ludwig
as Black girl
Crew
Director
- Pirjo Honkasalo
- Pekka Lehto
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Da Capo 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 Pirjo Honkasalo 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 1985, 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 Da Capo took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 121 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 172 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1985, when this film was released:
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Da Capo shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Kissed, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Da Capo subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Open Window and Freak Show explore similar territory, Da Capo 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: August 16, 1985
- Runtime: 2h 1m
