Cast
View AllTamaz Bokeria
as Chik
Vera Ivleva
as Chik's Aunt
Gia Abesalashvili
as Chik's Uncle
Dzhamal Kaloian
as Onik
Filipp Dzikevich
as Lesik
Nino Nizharadze
as Lika
Olesya Marchenko
as Sonka
Dionis Stilidi
as Bocha
Yuri Tsanava
as Suren
Valentina Telichkina
as Valya
Mais Sarkisyan
as Alikhan
Vladimir Antonik
as Motya
Garegin Aslanyan
as Keropchik
Gelena Ivlieva
as Faina
Nodar Maskhulia
as Teacher
Crew
Director
- Leila Gordeladze
Writer
- Leila Gordeladze
- Fazil Iskander
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Holiday in Expectation of a Holiday examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Leila Gordeladze 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 1989, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Holiday in Expectation of a Holiday took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 190 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 233 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 78 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1989, when this film was released:
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Holiday in Expectation of a Holiday shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Lewdness Yoga Classroom, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Holiday in Expectation of a Holiday subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Alpha Hippie and The Peeper's Story: The Tattoo Master explore similar territory, Holiday in Expectation of a Holiday stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: August 1, 1989
- Runtime: 3h 10m
