Cast
View AllTamaz Togonidze
as Tsiskara
Dodo Chichinadze
as Mzia
Gocha Abashidze
as Badri
Nino Kakabadze
as Mother of Tsiskara
Eteri Jordania
as Tekle
Giorgi Shavgulidze
as Wizard
Mikhail Chikhladze
as Black Minister
Yakov Tripolsky
as Blue Minister
Mavr Piasetsky
as Green Minister
Viktor Chankvetadze
as Witch
Tito Baramidze
as Old man
Kote Daushvili
as Giant
Akaki Kvantaliani
as Giant
Aleksandre Gomelauri
as Giant
Aleksandre Edzgveradze
as Metalsmith
Crew
Director
- Sergo Chelidze
Producer
- Aleksandre Lortkipanidze
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Tsiskara represents a fascinating example of Fantasy/Mystery/Romance cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on interpersonal relationships and emotional connections. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Sergo Chelidze 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 1955, 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 Tsiskara took approximately 31 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 77 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 101 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
- 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.
Historical Context
- In 1955, when this film was released:
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Tsiskara shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike A Story of the Forest: Mavka, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Tsiskara offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like National Treasure and Beowulf explore similar territory, Tsiskara 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: March 10, 1955
- Runtime: 1h 17m
