Cast
View All
Magda Vášáryová
as Rusalka
Gabriela Beňačková
as Rusalka (singing voice)
Milan Kňažko
as Prince
Peter Dvorský
as Prince (singing voice)
Přemysl Kočí
as Water Goblin
Ondrej Malachovský
as Water Goblin (singing voice)
Jaroslava Adamová
as Witch
Libuše Márová
as Witch (singing voice)
Božidara Turzonovová
as Foreign Princess
Milada Šubrtová
as Foreign Princess (singing voice)
Josef Karlík
as Gamekeeper
Jaroslav Stříška
as Gamekeeper (singing voice)
Dagmar Havlová Veškrnová
as Kitchen Girl
Daniela Šounová
as Kitchen Girl (singing voice)
Hana Packertová
as Wood Sprite
Crew
Director
- Petr Weigl
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Rusalka represents a fascinating example of Music cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Petr Weigl 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 1978, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Rusalka took approximately 33 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 119 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 143 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 6 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The costume department created over 314 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1978, when this film was released:
- The Watergate scandal changed public perception of political institutions.
- Disco music dominated popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Rusalka shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Confession of the Vanished, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Rusalka offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Mozart: The Magic Flute and Rita explore similar territory, Rusalka 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 29, 1978
- Runtime: 1h 59m
