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Things to Do Before You Die

Things to Do Before You Die (2021)

Mar 19, 2021 1h 44m Drama Comedy

A group of friends in their early 40s are shocked by the death of one of them. After the funeral, they must fulfil his last wish: a peculiar game in which each of them must write down on a piece of paper something that they would like to do before they die. Each wish will be the starting point of an intense weekend in which they will live fun, unexpected and, sometimes, extreme situations. But each one will also open other doors, releasing fears, instincts, prejudices and secrets, leading them to more complex situations by confronting them with a concept that they carry as a condemnation: "adulthood".

Directed by Cristina Fernández Pintado

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Cristina Fernández Pintado
  • Miguel Llorens
Writer
  • Cristina Fernández Pintado
  • Miguel Llorens

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Things to Do Before You Die 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 Cristina Fernández Pintado 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 2021, 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 Things to Do Before You Die took approximately 8 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 104 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 162 minutes long.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
  • The film contains approximately 2175 individual shots.
  • The musical score contains over 44 unique compositions.

Historical Context

  • In 2021, when this film is released:
  • Artificial intelligence was becoming increasingly integrated into daily life and creative industries.
  • Streaming platforms had largely replaced traditional cinema and television models.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Things to Do Before You Die shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Ghosts, which focuses more on action than character development, Things to Do Before You Die subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Princesses and The Talented Mr. Ripley explore similar territory, Things to Do Before You Die 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: March 19, 2021
  • Runtime: 1h 44m

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