Cast
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Tālivaldis Āboliņš
as Albert Einstein
Marylu Poolman
as Elsa Einstein
Janina Hartwig
as Margot
Anette Felber
as Helene Dukas
Lutz Salzmann
as Dr. Rolf Schnittke
Werner Dissel
as Max Planck
Manfred Heine
as Dr. Mayer
Horst Schulze
as Prof. Stark
Renate Blume
as Tabea Mandel
Wolfgang Greese
as Dr. Flexner
Petra Gorr
as Jane Huston
Marianne Wünscher
as Maja Winterle-Einstein
Manfred Möck
as Frank Belasco
Hansjürgen Hürrig
as Leo Szilard
Hanns-Jörn Weber
as Edward Teller
Crew
Director
- Georg Schiemann
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Albert Einstein 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 Georg Schiemann 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 1990, 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 Albert Einstein took approximately 26 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 160 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 214 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The musical score contains over 39 unique compositions.
- The film contains approximately 1640 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1990, when this film was released:
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Albert Einstein shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Kahlschlag, which focuses more on action than character development, Albert Einstein subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Collin and Seduced by Madness: The Diane Borchardt Story explore similar territory, Albert Einstein 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: October 21, 1990
- Runtime: 2h 40m
