Cast
View AllCrew
Director
- Lars Egler
Writer
- Pär Lagerkvist
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Mannen utan själ 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 Lars Egler 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 1983, 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 Mannen utan själ took approximately 26 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 90 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 138 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 3 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 70 unique compositions.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1983, when this film was released:
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- 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 Mannen utan själ shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Miyazaki, Spirit of Nature, which focuses more on action than character development, Mannen utan själ subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like No Apologies and The Way Things Go explore similar territory, Mannen utan själ 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: March 7, 1983
- Runtime: 1h 30m