Cast
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Josef Abrhám
as Jaroslav Hašek
Rudolf Hrušínský
as Straslipka
Inna Gulaya
as Shura
Jaroslav Marvan
as general
František Filipovský
as captain
Yuriy Yakovlev
as Polivanov
Aleksandr Kutepov
as Yakov Sverdlov
Nikolay Grinko
as brigade commander
Oleg Borisov
as Mitka
Sergei Filippov
as city head
Josef Kemr
as spy
Josef Hlinomaz
as innkeeper
František Hanus
as police inspector
Karel Effa
as archduke
Míla Myslíková
as archduke's wife
Crew
Director
- Yuri Ozerov
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, A Great Road Ahead 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 Yuri Ozerov 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 1963, 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 A Great Road Ahead took approximately 18 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 100 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 136 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 202 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1963, when this film was released:
- The Vietnam War was becoming increasingly controversial.
- Counterculture movements were challenging traditional values.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While A Great Road Ahead shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Poorna, which focuses more on action than character development, A Great Road Ahead subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Ron Clark Story and Nixon explore similar territory, A Great Road Ahead 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: April 27, 1963
- Runtime: 1h 40m
