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Farewell, Home Sweet Home

Farewell, Home Sweet Home (1999)

Dec 01, 1999 1h 58m Drama Comedy Romance

Nicholas is the eldest son of a wealthy suburban family, whose businesswoman mother makes deals from a helicopter and has an affair with her business partner. His cheerful, alcoholic father, on the other hand, is reduced to a prisoner in his room with his devoted dog and electric train set. Unbeknownst to his parents, Nicholas works as a window cleaner and dish washer in a Parisian cafe. He is also in love with the daughter of another cafe's owner, who, however, has an abusive boyfriend. One night, Nicholas sneaks a few drunken drifters into his family wine cellar and his father unexpectedly takes a liking to the stranger.

Directed by Otar Iosseliani

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Otar Iosseliani
Writer
  • Otar Iosseliani
Producer
  • Martine Marignac

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Farewell, Home Sweet Home 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 Otar Iosseliani 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 1999, 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 Farewell, Home Sweet Home took approximately 20 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 118 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 176 minutes long.
  • The costume department created over 445 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.

Historical Context

  • In 1999, when this film was released:
  • Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
  • 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 Farewell, Home Sweet Home shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike The King of Comedy, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Farewell, Home Sweet Home subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like The Shawshank Redemption and Harold and Maude explore similar territory, Farewell, Home Sweet Home stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

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: December 1, 1999
  • Runtime: 1h 58m

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