Cast
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Sergei Kurilov
as Belinsky
Aleksandr Borisov
as Gertsen
Vladimir Chestnokov
as Nekrasov
Georgiy Vitsin
as Gogol
Nikolai Afanasyev
as Lermontov
I. Litovkin
as Turgenev
Nina Mamayeva
as Belinskaya
Yuri Lyubimov
as Frolov
Vladimir Belokurov
as Barsukov
Konstantin Skorobogatov
as Krestyanin
Boris Dmokhovsky
as Dubelt
Mikhail Nazvanov
as Nikolai I
Yuriy Tolubeev
as Schepkin
Crew
Director
- Grigori Kozintsev
Writer
- Grigori Kozintsev
- Elena Serebrovskaya
- Yuri German
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Belinsky 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 Grigori Kozintsev 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 1953, 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 Belinsky took approximately 19 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 102 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 134 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1953, when this film was released:
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Belinsky shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Dempsey, which focuses more on action than character development, Belinsky subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Aleksandr Parkhomenko and We Are Moluccans explore similar territory, Belinsky 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: June 4, 1953
- Runtime: 1h 42m
