Cast
View AllTorben Bille
as Olaf, the dwarf (as Torben)
Anne Sparrow
as Mary, the wife
Tony Eades
as Peter, the husband
Clara Keller
as Lila Lash
Werner Hedman
as Santa Claus (as Werner Hedmann)
Gerda Madsen
as Winnie, Lila's friend
Dale Robinson
as Dwarf's customer
Jeanette Marsden
as Sex slave (as Jeannette Marsden)
Lisbeth Olsen
as Sex slave
Jette Koplev
as Sex slave (as Jane Cutter)
Richard Wilder
as
Ben Haley
as
Ted Neumann
as
Peter Gaumont
as
Jens Nilsen
as
Crew
Director
- Eduardo Fuller
Producer
- Nicolas Poole
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This Crime/Horror film explores themes of fear and survival, delving into the psychological aspects of human nature when confronted with the unknown. The Sinful Dwarf presents a unique perspective on the horror genre by focusing on the psychological terror rather than relying on typical jump scares.
Director Eduardo Fuller 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1973, 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 The Sinful Dwarf took approximately 5 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 95 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 123 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 14 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1973, when this film was released:
- Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
- The Watergate scandal changed public perception of political institutions.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Sinful Dwarf shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Bad Lieutenant, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Sinful Dwarf offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Edge of Darkness and Massacre on Aisle 12 explore similar territory, The Sinful Dwarf stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: December 20, 1973
- Runtime: 1h 35m