Cast
View All
Beata Fido
as Dziennikarka Nina
Aldona Struzik
as Generałowa
Lech Łotocki
as Prezydent
Halina Łabonarska
as Matka Niny
Dominika Figurska
as Wdowa smoleńska
Maciej Góraj
as Ojciec Niny
Ewa Dałkowska
as Żona Prezydenta
Marek Probosz
as Przyjaciel ojca Niny
Marek Bukowski
as pilot
Piotr Bajor
as Szef gabinetu prezydenta
Andrzej Mastalerz
as
Ryszard Mróz
as Ojciec dowódcy tupolewa
Anna Samusionek
as dziennikarka
Maria Gładkowska
as
Michał Kula
as
Crew
Director
- Antoni Krauze
Writer
- Tomasz Łysiak
- Antoni Krauze
- Maciej Pawlicki
- Marcin Wolski
Producer
- Maciej Pawlicki
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Smolensk 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 Antoni Krauze 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 Smolensk took approximately 26 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $3.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 115 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 160 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 339 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The film contains approximately 1826 individual shots.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 2016, when this film is released:
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- 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 Smolensk shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Foreign Correspondent, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Smolensk subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Masked and Anonymous and Shock Corridor explore similar territory, Smolensk 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: September 9, 2016
- Runtime: 1h 55m
- Budget: $3,000,000
