Cast
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Alida Valli
as Claudia Lesurf
Claude Cerval
as Adrien Lesurf
André Jocelyn
as Yvan Lesurf
Juliette Mayniel
as Lucie
Robert Burnier
as André Lagrange
Jean-Louis Maury
as Sparkos
Sacha Briquet
as Gravedigger
Pierre Vernier
as Paul
Serge Bento
as François
Roger Carel
as un employé
László Szabó
as
Henri Attal
as un gardien
Dominique Zardi
as un gardien
Liliane Dreyfus
as Ginette
Crew
Director
- Claude Chabrol
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Ophélia 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 Claude Chabrol 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 1963, 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 Ophélia took approximately 29 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 105 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 152 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The musical score contains over 41 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1963, when this film was released:
- The Vietnam War was becoming increasingly controversial.
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: February 6, 1963
- Runtime: 1h 45m