Backdrop preview The Crab Basket backdrop
The Crab Basket

The Crab Basket (1960)

May 20, 1960 1h 26m Drama Romance

Charles is a student in Strasbourg. Abandoned by Liliane, his fiancée, who has inexplicably given up on marriage, he moves to Paris, where he decides to pursue a career in cinema. He founded a film club and became a journalist, then assistant to a famous director. Little by little, he came face to face with the various compromises inherent in this professional milieu. After writing a screenplay about his experiences, he enlists the help of Chantal, a young actress, to bring his film project to fruition.

Directed by Joseph Lisbona

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Joseph Lisbona
Writer
  • Joseph Lisbona

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, The Crab Basket 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 Joseph Lisbona 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 1960, 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 The Crab Basket took approximately 15 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 86 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 113 minutes long.
  • The costume department created over 350 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The screenplay went through 15 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.

Historical Context

  • In 1960, when this film was released:
  • Counterculture movements were challenging traditional values.
  • The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
  • The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.

How This Film Stands Out

Details

  • Release Date: May 20, 1960
  • Runtime: 1h 26m

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