Cast
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Karl Markovics
as Sorowitsch
August Diehl
as Burger
Devid Striesow
as Herzog
Martin Brambach
as Holst
August Zirner
as Dr. Klinger
Veit Stübner
as Atze
Sebastian Urzendowsky
as Kolya Karloff
Andreas Schmidt
as Zilinski
Tilo Prückner
as Dr. Viktor Hahn
Lenn Kudrjawizki
as Loszek
Marie Bäumer
as Aglaya
Arndt Schwering-Sohnrey
as Hans
Dolores Chaplin
as Rothaarige
Heinz Schubert
as Hehler
Holger Schober
as Unterscharführer
Crew
Director
- Stefan Ruzowitzky
Producer
- Babette Schröder
- Nina Bohlmann
- Josef Aichholzer
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Counterfeiters 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 Stefan Ruzowitzky 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 critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Counterfeiters took approximately 17 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $6.3 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 98 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 143 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
- The screenplay went through 5 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The film contains approximately 1752 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 2007, when this film is released:
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- 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 The Counterfeiters shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Right Stuff, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Counterfeiters subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like A Walk in the Clouds and The Chess Player explore similar territory, The Counterfeiters stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: March 22, 2007
- Runtime: 1h 38m
- Budget: $6,250,000
- Revenue: $20,200,000
