Cast
View AllBrian Stirner
as Tom
Davyd Harries
as Jack
Nicholas Ball
as Arthur
Julie Neesam
as The Girl
Sam Sewell
as The Trained Soldier
John Franklyn-Robbins
as Dad
Stella Tanner
as Mum
Harry Shacklock
as Stationmaster
David Scheuer
as Medical Officer
Ian Liston
as Barrack Guard
Lorna Lewis
as Prostitute
Stephen Riddle
as Dead German Soldier
Mark Penfold
as Photographer
Micaela Minelli
as Little Girl
Elsa Minelli
as Little Girl's Mother
Crew
Director
- Stuart Cooper
Producer
- James Quinn
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Overlord 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 Stuart Cooper 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 1975, 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 Overlord took approximately 5 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 83 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 126 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The musical score contains over 33 unique compositions.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1975, when this film was released:
- Disco music dominated popular culture.
- The Watergate scandal changed public perception of political institutions.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Overlord shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Sokolovo, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Overlord subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Raging Bull and It's a Wonderful Life explore similar territory, Overlord stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: July 1, 1975
- Runtime: 1h 23m
Where to Watch
