Backdrop preview Samanishvili's Stepmother backdrop
Samanishvili's Stepmother

Samanishvili's Stepmother (1926)

May 15, 1926 56m Comedy Drama

Directed by Kote Mardjanishvili

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Kote Mardjanishvili
  • Zakaria Berishvili
Writer
  • Sergo Kldiashvili

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Samanishvili's Stepmother 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 Kote Mardjanishvili 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 1926, 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 Samanishvili's Stepmother took approximately 23 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 56 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 93 minutes long.
  • The film contains approximately 1239 individual shots.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.

Historical Context

  • In 1926, when this film was released:
  • The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
  • Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
  • The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.

How This Film Stands Out

While Samanishvili's Stepmother shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Little Miss Sunshine, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Samanishvili's Stepmother subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Edward Scissorhands and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind explore similar territory, Samanishvili's Stepmother stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

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: May 15, 1926
  • Runtime: 56m