Cast
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Isabelle Adjani
as Eliane Wieck, aka 'Elle'
Alain Souchon
as Fiorimonto Montecciari, aka 'Pin-Pon'
Suzanne Flon
as Nine, aka 'Cognata'
Jenny Clève
as Mrs. Montecciari, Pin-Pon's Mother
Maria Machado
as Paula Wieck Devigne, aka 'Eva Braun', Eliane's mother
Evelyne Didi
as Miss Dieu, aka 'Calamité', schoolmistress of Eliane
Jean Gaven
as Leballech, boss of the sawmill
François Cluzet
as Mickey, brother of Pin-Pon
Manuel Gélin
as Boubou, brother of Pin-Pon
Roger Carel
as Henri, aka 'Henri IV', owner of Pin-Pon
Michel Galabru
as Gabriel Devigne, Eliane's father
Marie-Pierre Casey
as Ms. Tussaud, nurse
Cécile Vassort
as Josette,wife of Henri IV
Édith Scob
as Doctor
Virginie Vignon
as Lou Lou Lou
Crew
Director
- Jean Becker
Writer
- Sébastien Japrisot
Producer
- Christine Beyout
- Gérard Beytout
- Paul Claudon
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, One Deadly Summer 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 Jean Becker 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 1983, 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 One Deadly Summer took approximately 33 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 130 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 156 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 50 unique compositions.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1983, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While One Deadly Summer shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Memento, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, One Deadly Summer subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Dirty Dancing and Léon: The Professional explore similar territory, One Deadly Summer 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: May 11, 1983
- Runtime: 2h 10m
