Cast
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Horst Frank
as Willy Jensen
Christiane Krüger
as Vera Jensen
Heinz Reincke
as Heinz Jensen
Klaus Schwarzkopf
as Kommissar Knudsen
Andrea Rau
as Maggy
Sigurd Fitzek
as Timpe
Heidy Bohlen
as Lilliane Berndorf
Ulrich Beiger
as Berndorf
Gerhard Bormann
as Löffler
Ingeburg Kanstein
as Polizistin Fiedler
Horst Hesslein
as Jimmy
Harry Wolff
as Mann
Curt Timm
as Burkhardt
Crew
Director
- Wolfgang Staudte
Producer
- Heinz Willeg
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Jailbreak in Hamburg represents a fascinating example of Crime/Thriller 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 Wolfgang Staudte 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 1971, 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 Jailbreak in Hamburg took approximately 24 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 123 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1386 individual shots.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 6 months to complete.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1971, when this film was released:
- Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
- Disco music dominated popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Jailbreak in Hamburg shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike 8MM 2, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Jailbreak in Hamburg subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Les Misérables and Ragol lehaza alzaman explore similar territory, Jailbreak in Hamburg stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: October 14, 1971
- Runtime: 1h 23m
