Backdrop preview The Last Queen backdrop
The Last Queen

The Last Queen (2023)

Apr 19, 2023 1h 50m Adventure History Drama

1516, Legend has it that the king of Algiers had a wife named Zaphira. When the pirate Aroudj Barbarossa arrives to liberate the city from the Spaniards, he is determined to conquer Zaphira as well as the kingdom itself. But is Zaphira willing to let him, or is she plotting for herself?

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Directed by Damien Ounouri

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Damien Ounouri
  • Adila Bendimerad
Writer
  • Adila Bendimerad
  • Damien Ounouri
Producer
  • Patrick Sobelman
  • Adila Bendimerad
  • Roger Huang Jiang-Feng
  • Justine O.
  • Damien Ounouri

Reviews

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, The Last Queen 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 Damien Ounouri 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 2023, 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 The Last Queen took approximately 16 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 110 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 132 minutes long.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The costume department created over 135 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.

Historical Context

  • In 2023, when this film is released:
  • Artificial intelligence was becoming increasingly integrated into daily life and creative industries.
  • Climate change mitigation had become a central policy concern internationally.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While The Last Queen shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Yema, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Last Queen subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like The Bugler of Algiers and Many Beautiful Things explore similar territory, The Last Queen 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: April 19, 2023
  • Runtime: 1h 50m

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