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Karambol
10.0

Karambol (1966)

Oct 17, 1966 1h 24m Drama

In a large provincial town, two friends Nasko and Raycho meet Emil, a conductor in the opera, who introduces them to Ana, an opera singer. Nasko and Ana fall in love. Nasko has to write a story for the newspaper about the irregular enrollment in college of Aneliya, the daughter of the local bigwig. A well-known director arrives from the capital for an opera premiere and makes advances to Ana. Aneliya comes to demand an explanation in Nasko's home. Ana finds her there and decides to take her revenge on him. She becomes intimate with the director. The story about the Aneliya case is ready, but as desk editor is drunk, Nasko fakes his OK signature. He sham is discovered. The relationships between the erstwhile friends are marred by insincerity, falsehood, tacit intrigues. Nasko plucks up courage to tell his friends the truth. In this way, he wins back Ana's love and he boy's trust.

Directed by Lyubomir Sharlandzhiev

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Lyubomir Sharlandzhiev
Writer
  • Atanas Tzenev

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Karambol 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 Lyubomir Sharlandzhiev 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 1966, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Karambol took approximately 27 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 84 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 140 minutes long.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
  • The musical score contains over 60 unique compositions.
  • The screenplay went through 8 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.

Historical Context

  • In 1966, when this film was released:
  • The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
  • Social and cultural revolution was transforming Western societies.
  • The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.

How This Film Stands Out

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

Unlike La provinciale, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Karambol offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like We Cry Together and Kindan: Seifuku no modae explore similar territory, Karambol 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: October 17, 1966
  • Runtime: 1h 24m