Cast
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Sabine Timoteo
as Melanie
Ivars Krasts
as Aleksandrs
Guna Zariņa
as Katrina
Maija Doveika
as Vilma
Erwin Leder
as Jakob
Baiba Broka
as Anna
Astrīda Kairiša
as Melanie's mother
Lilita Ozoliņa
as deported woman
Viktor Nemets
as Ampalovs
Edvīns Mekšs
as Andrejs
Evija Rudzīte
as Biruta
Kirils Zaicevs
as Valsts iekšlietu tautas komisariāta karaspēka leitnants
Ģirts Krūmiņš
as Kārlis
Evija Martinsone
as Evija Martinsone
Crew
Director
- Viesturs Kairišs
Writer
- Viesturs Kairišs
Producer
- Gints Grūbe
- Inese Boka-Grūbe
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Chronicles of Melanie 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 Viesturs Kairišs 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 The Chronicles of Melanie took approximately 36 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $0.8 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 124 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 182 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
- The costume department created over 420 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 2016, 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 The Chronicles of Melanie shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Cuckoo, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Chronicles of Melanie subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Lives of Others and Solaris explore similar territory, The Chronicles of Melanie 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: November 1, 2016
- Runtime: 2h 4m
- Budget: $800,000
