Cast
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Boris Shcherbakov
as Novikov
Oleg Borisov
as Dronov
Galina Bulgakova
as Tanya
Irina Rozanova
as Larisa
Yevgeni Matveyev
as father-in-law
Eduard Bocharov
as Kozlov
Sergey Garmash
as taxi driver
Aleksandr Feklistov
as Anatoliy
Natalya Popova
as Dronova
Nikolay Lavrov
as chief
Marianna Strizhenova
as mother-in-law
Vladimir Osipchuk
as Safonov
Vladimir Vinogradov
as Sergei
Vsevolod Plokhov
as Nikita, Novikov's son
Natalya Sirenko
as Yuliya, Novikov's daughter
Crew
Director
- Arkadiy Sirenko
Writer
- Evgeniy Grigorev
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Fathers 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 Arkadiy Sirenko 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 1989, 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 Fathers took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 134 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 156 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The costume department created over 311 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1989, when this film was released:
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Fathers shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike JFK, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Fathers offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like American Graffiti and The Assassination of Richard Nixon explore similar territory, Fathers stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: April 11, 1989
- Runtime: 2h 14m
