Cast
View AllCharles Berling
as Robert Badinter
Didier Bezace
as Le président de la cour d'assises lors du procès Bontems
Gérard Depardieu
as Henry Torrès
Edwin Krüger
as L'assesseur du président de la cour d'assises
Laurence Cordier
as Élisabeth Badinter
Alain Fromager
as Philippe Lemaire
Mathieu Simonet
as François Binet
Marc Bodnar
as Roger Bontems
Thierry Gibault
as Claude Buffet
Philippe Uchan
as l'avocat général à Troyes
Quentin Ogier
as Patrick Henry
Sören Prévost
as le journaliste d'Est-Éclair
Julien Tortora
as l'employé de l'hôtel
Monique Chaumette
as la mère de Robert Badinter
Bernard Haller
as académicien
Crew
Director
- Jean-Daniel Verhaeghe
Writer
- Alain Godard
Producer
- Christophe Louis
- Jean Nainchrik
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
L'Abolition represents a fascinating example of TV Movie/History cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Jean-Daniel Verhaeghe 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 2009, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of L'Abolition took approximately 8 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 180 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 218 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 2009, when this film is released:
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While L'Abolition shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Promised Land, which focuses more on action than character development, L'Abolition subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Ensemble and La Conférence de la honte explore similar territory, L'Abolition 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: January 27, 2009
- Runtime: 3h