Cast
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Jean Dujardin
as Picquart
Louis Garrel
as Alfred Dreyfus
Emmanuelle Seigner
as Pauline Monnier
Grégory Gadebois
as Henry
Hervé Pierre
as General Gonse
Wladimir Yordanoff
as General Mercier
Didier Sandre
as General Boisdeffre
Melvil Poupaud
as Maître Labori
Eric Ruf
as Sandherr
Mathieu Amalric
as Bertillon
Laurent Stocker
as General de Pellieux
Vincent Perez
as Maître Leblois
Michel Vuillermoz
as Du Paty de Clam
Vincent Grass
as General Billot
Denis Podalydès
as Maître Demange
Crew
Director
- Roman Polanski
Writer
- Roman Polanski
Producer
- Alain Goldman
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, An Officer and a Spy 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 Roman Polanski 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 2019, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of An Officer and a Spy took approximately 21 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $25.3 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 132 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 174 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 15 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 2019, when this film is released:
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While An Officer and a Spy shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Contact, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, An Officer and a Spy offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Bridges of Madison County and The Travelling Players explore similar territory, An Officer and a Spy 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: September 30, 2019
- Runtime: 2h 12m
- Budget: $25,300,000
- Revenue: $18,878,646
