Cast
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Nikolay Penkov
as Andrey Vasilyevich Ermakov
Laimonas Noreika
as Friedrich fon Ritter
Svetlana Sukhovey
as Nastya (doch Ermakova)
Lev Prygunov
as Yuri Stepanovich Logunov
Vladimir Druzhnikov
as Sergey Petrovich Travnikov (sotrudnik Vneshtorga)
Yuriy Sarantsev
as Chekantsev (chinovnik)
Leonid Kharitonov
as Egorych (konyukh)
Leonid Zverintsev
as Allerding (nemetski ofitser)
Vasili Funtikov
as Ermakov v yunosti
Fyodor Odinokov
as Mitrofanych (kuznets)
Arseniy Lobanov
as veduschiy auktsiona
Arnold Altmyae
as episode
Lidiya Dumtseva
as episode
Natalya Zakharova
as episode
Svetlana Chachava
as zhena ispanskoga posla
Crew
Director
- Valeri Kurykin
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Auction 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 Valeri Kurykin 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 Auction took approximately 18 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 89 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 143 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1725 individual shots.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1983, when this film was released:
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Auction shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Lines, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Auction offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Breath and Pretty Polly explore similar territory, Auction 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: May 23, 1983
- Runtime: 1h 29m
