Cast
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Lino Ventura
as Jean Douléan
Annie Girardot
as Hélène Douléan
Isabelle Adjani
as Isabelle Douléan
Nicole Courcel
as Madeleine
Francis Perrin
as Marc Morillon
Jacques Spiesser
as Rémy Abeillé
Michel Aumont
as Charvin
Robert Hardy
as Robert Dickinson
Nathalie Baye
as Christine Abeillé
Xavier Gélin
as Xavier
Georges Wilson
as Pierre
Annick Alane
as Jean's housekeeper
Paul Bisciglia
as Waiter
Robert Dalban
as Caretaker of the school
Francis Lemaire
as Inspector
Crew
Director
- Claude Pinoteau
Writer
- Jean-Loup Dabadie
- Claude Pinoteau
Producer
- Alain Poiré
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Slap 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 Pinoteau 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 1974, 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 The Slap took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 99 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 121 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2070 individual shots.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1974, when this film was released:
- Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
- The Watergate scandal changed public perception of political institutions.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Slap shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Definitely, Maybe, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Slap subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like EverAfter and Eat Drink Man Woman explore similar territory, The Slap 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: October 23, 1974
- Runtime: 1h 39m
