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Before Our Eyes

Before Our Eyes (2017)

Jan 01, 2017 14m Documentary

One inside, one outside. One thin line that creates “us” and “them”. The importance of the borders has again a huge impact in Europe. Yesterday it was all about free movement. Today it´s about controled borders. And walls and fences have become normality. “Before our eyes” is a testimony that shows a situation where Hungary, and indirectly Europe closes itself to the outside world. The film portrays four places, four events, which was filmed over three days in early September 2015, when the worst refugee crisis we have seen since the Second World War started in earnest. “My Europe does not build walls!” said Stefan Löfven, the swedish prime minister, in a speech a few days later. Before our eyes shows how words and actions are no longer connected. Today, Spain, Greece, Bulgaria, the UK, Hungary, Slovenia and Austria have built fences and walls to strengthen theirs and Europe’s external borders.

Directed by Frans Huhta

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Frans Huhta

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Thematic Analysis

Before Our Eyes represents a fascinating example of Documentary 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 Frans Huhta 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 2017, 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 Before Our Eyes took approximately 28 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 14 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 42 minutes long.
  • The costume department created over 166 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 4 months to complete.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.

Historical Context

  • In 2017, when this film is released:
  • Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
  • Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Before Our Eyes shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Cheap Food, which focuses more on action than character development, Before Our Eyes subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Borders and Demokratie unter Druck – Europa vor der Wahl explore similar territory, Before Our Eyes 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: January 1, 2017
  • Runtime: 14m

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