Cast
View AllBenoît Régent
as Gerard
Johanna ter Steege
as Marianne
Yann Collette
as Martin
Mireille Perrier
as Lola
Brigitte Sy
as Aline
Anouk Grinberg
as Adrienne
Adélaïde Blasquez
as Linda
Philippe Morier-Genoud
as Stepbrother
Edith Boulogne
as Grandmother
Thomas Salsmann
as Marianne's Son
Alexis Piccolo
as Ben
Chantal Trichet
as Aline's Friend
Crew
Director
- Philippe Garrel
Writer
- Jean-François Goyet
Producer
- Gérard Vaugeois
- Bernard Palacios
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, I Can No Longer Hear the Guitar 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 Philippe Garrel 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 1991, 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 I Can No Longer Hear the Guitar took approximately 11 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 98 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 120 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 46 unique compositions.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1991, when this film was released:
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While I Can No Longer Hear the Guitar 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 Women, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, I Can No Longer Hear the Guitar subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Amarcord and Lemon Tree explore similar territory, I Can No Longer Hear the Guitar 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: September 11, 1991
- Runtime: 1h 38m
- Revenue: $12,876