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My Wonderful West Berlin

My Wonderful West Berlin (2017)

Feb 11, 2017 1h 37m Documentary

MY WONDERFUL WEST BERLIN recounts the lives and struggles of gay men in West-Berlin. Through present-day scenes and never before seen archival footage, a fascinating picture emerges of a city, that today characterizes itself as a dream destination and place of refuge for gays.

Directed by Jochen Hick

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Jochen Hick
Writer
  • Jochen Hick
Producer
  • Jochen Hick

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Thematic Analysis

My Wonderful West Berlin represents a fascinating example of Documentary 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 Jochen Hick 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 2017, 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 My Wonderful West Berlin took approximately 18 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 97 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 119 minutes long.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 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 142 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 2017, when this film is released:
  • Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
  • Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While My Wonderful West Berlin shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Resident Ground Floor, which focuses more on action than character development, My Wonderful West Berlin subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like The Paramount Pisser and Misguided Piss explore similar territory, My Wonderful West Berlin 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: February 11, 2017
  • Runtime: 1h 37m