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My Heart Is an Octopus or My Father on the Shore of the Black Sea
8.0

My Heart Is an Octopus or My Father on the Shore of the Black Sea (2017)

Jan 31, 2017 1h 52m Drama Documentary

A middle-aged man returns to a fictional country in the Balkans to make a documentary about his father, a well-known artist. The son’s own artistic endeavours have never received attention to the level he feels they deserve. Consequently he has struggled to find a meaningful place in society and his personal life is chaos.

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Directed by Neno Belchev

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Neno Belchev

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, My Heart Is an Octopus or My Father on the Shore of the Black Sea 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 Neno Belchev 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 2017, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of My Heart Is an Octopus or My Father on the Shore of the Black Sea took approximately 27 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 112 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 146 minutes long.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.

Historical Context

  • In 2017, when this film is released:
  • Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
  • 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 Heart Is an Octopus or My Father on the Shore of the Black Sea shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Le regard de Georges Brassens, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, My Heart Is an Octopus or My Father on the Shore of the Black Sea offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Jurnal Risa by Risa Saraswati and Dark Side of the Moon explore similar territory, My Heart Is an Octopus or My Father on the Shore of the Black Sea stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

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: January 31, 2017
  • Runtime: 1h 52m