Cast
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Stefania Sandrelli
as Adriana Astarelli
Mario Adorf
as Emilio Ricci, aka Bietolone
Jean-Claude Brialy
as Dario Marchionni
Joachim Fuchsberger
as The Writer
Nino Manfredi
as Cianfanna
Enrico Maria Salerno
as Roberto
Ugo Tognazzi
as Gigi Baggini
Karin Dor
as Barbara
Franco Fabrizi
as Paganelli
Turi Ferro
as Il commissario
Robert Hoffmann
as Antonio Marais
Franco Nero
as Italo - The garage attendant
Véronique Vendell
as Alice Stendhal
Franca Polesello
as Maria - The usherette
Renato Terra
as Man in the Caravan
Crew
Director
- Antonio Pietrangeli
Producer
- Turi Vasile
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, I Knew Her Well 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 Antonio Pietrangeli 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 1965, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of I Knew Her Well took approximately 19 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 115 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 165 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The film contains approximately 1193 individual shots.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1965, when this film was released:
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- Social and cultural revolution was transforming Western societies.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While I Knew Her Well shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Souls from the Coast, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, I Knew Her Well offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like This Man Must Die and Love Has Many Faces explore similar territory, I Knew Her Well 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: December 1, 1965
- Runtime: 1h 55m
Where to Watch
