Cast
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Crew
Director
- Anja Gurres
Writer
- Manuel Ostwald
- Anja Gurres
Producer
- Arthur Struyf
- Linda Hartogs
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Give Me a Smile examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Anja Gurres 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 2019, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Give Me a Smile took approximately 35 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 9 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 53 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 10 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
- The film contains approximately 872 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 2019, when this film is released:
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Give Me a Smile shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike A Name Written in Water, which focuses more on action than character development, Give Me a Smile offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Antonia's Line and La malquerida explore similar territory, Give Me a Smile 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: October 16, 2019
- Runtime: 9m
