Cast
View AllEdward Herrmann
as Narrator (voice)
Joseph Stalin
as Self (archive footage)
Vladimir Lenin
as Self (archive footage)
Lev Kopelev
as Self
Dodo Chichinadze
as Self
Lev Razgon
as Self
Leonid Zamyatin
as Self
Edvard Radzinsky
as Self
Alexander Burdonsky
as Self
Dmitry Likhachev
as Self
Olga Trifonova
as Self
Genrikh Yagoda
as Self (archive footage)
Nathan Steinberger
as Self
Boris Efimov
as Self
Sergei Khrushchev
as Self
Crew
Director
- Peter Adler
- Stefan Brauburger
- Alexander Berkel
- Oliver Halmburger
- Ralf Piechowiak
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Stalin: Man of Steel represents a fascinating example of Documentary/History cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Peter Adler 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2003, 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 Stalin: Man of Steel took approximately 4 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 90 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 127 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 285 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 2003, when this film is released:
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Stalin: Man of Steel shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Barbara Stanwyck: Fire and Desire, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Stalin: Man of Steel offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Anjelica Huston on James Joyce: A Shout in the Street and Iwo Jima: 36 Days of Hell explore similar territory, Stalin: Man of Steel 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: January 1, 2003
- Runtime: 1h 30m