Cast
View All
Christophe Malavoy
as Charles Dombais
Déborah François
as Florence Dombais
Lola Giovannetti
as Florence Dombais (child)
Karina Marimon
as Suzanne
Danny Martinez
as Paul Dombais
Nicolas Briançon
as Cartier
Samuel Cahu
as Arthur
Jeffrey Barbeau
as Arthur (child)
Philippe Clay
as Jérémie
Michel Robin
as Salomon
Chrystelle Labaude
as Louise Chicot
Pierre Santini
as Sarcotte
Caroline Bourg
as Edith de Préville Dombais
Marie-France Pisier
as Cléopâtre
Serpentine Teyssier
as Lucrèce
Crew
Director
- Laurent Jaoui
Writer
- Alexander Adabashyan
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Dombey and Son 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 Laurent Jaoui 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 2007, 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 Dombey and Son took approximately 15 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 180 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 240 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The costume department created over 170 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The musical score contains over 54 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2007, when this film is released:
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Dombey and Son shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike My Life as a Dog, which focuses more on action than character development, Dombey and Son subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like 99 Francs and Pet Sematary explore similar territory, Dombey and Son 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: June 7, 2007
- Runtime: 3h
