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Dark Sunday

Dark Sunday (1949)

Mar 23, 1949 1h 24m

Shortly before the War, Jan Lazlo, a Hungarian musician who has emigrated to France, falls for a young woman. Alas, the lady forsakes him and the poor man tries to overcome his grief by writing "Gloomy Sunday", a song so desperate that it can drive its listeners to suicide. Max, a music publisher, likes the song and decides to launch it by all means, foul or fair. Bob, his accomplice, manages to talk his mistress Michèle into committing a fake suicide. She obeys him and the scheme is a success as a result. On this occasion, Jan gets to know Michèle and the two young people fall in love. Happiness seems to be in store for Jan again but this is without counting with Bob. Jealous of Jan, the naughty fellow indeed tells him that Michèle's attempted suicide was nothing but an advertising pretense.

Directed by Jacqueline Audry

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Jacqueline Audry
Writer
  • André Haguet
  • André Legrand
Producer
  • Claude Dolbert

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Thematic Analysis

Dark Sunday represents a fascinating example of cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on interpersonal relationships and emotional connections. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Jacqueline Audry 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1949, 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 Dark Sunday took approximately 28 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 139 minutes long.
  • The musical score contains over 33 unique compositions.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.

Historical Context

  • In 1949, when this film was released:
  • Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
  • The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
  • The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.

How This Film Stands Out

Details

  • Release Date: March 23, 1949
  • Runtime: 1h 24m

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