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The Russian Revolution

The Russian Revolution (2017)

Jun 15, 2017 47m Documentary History

Starting in 1881 this film shows the personal battle between Lenin's Ulyanov family and the royal Romanovs that eventually led to the Russian revolution.

Directed by Cal Seville

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Cal Seville

Reviews

alexas
10/10

Easy 5/5 stars. By far the best documentary I have ever seen on the Russian Revolution. Required viewing for anyone with any interest whatsoever in one of the most important events of the 20th Century.

May 17, 2020

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Thematic Analysis

The Russian Revolution represents a fascinating example of Documentary/History 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 Cal Seville 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 The Russian Revolution took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 47 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 69 minutes long.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
  • The screenplay went through 8 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.

Historical Context

  • In 2017, when this film is released:
  • Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
  • Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While The Russian Revolution shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Hodina života, which focuses more on action than character development, The Russian Revolution subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like The Cuckoo and The Killing Fields explore similar territory, The Russian Revolution 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 15, 2017
  • Runtime: 47m

Where to Watch

Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video with Ads

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