Cast
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Jürgen Vogel
as Theo
Sabine Timoteo
as Nettie
André Hennicke
as Sascha
Manfred Zapatka
as Nettie's father
Judith Engel
as Anja Schattschneider
Maya Bothe
as Sybille
Anna Brass
as Raped woman in the dunes
Anne-Kathrin Golinsky
as Seller in department store
Anna De Carlo
as Waitress
Frank Wickermann
as Michael
Bernadette Büllmann
as Singer of "Ave Maria"
Marcel Batangtaris
as Toni
Andreas Laurenz Maier
as Marius
Crew
Director
- Matthias Glasner
Writer
- Judith Angerbauer
- Matthias Glasner
- Jürgen Vogel
Producer
- Matthias Glasner
- Frank Döhmann
- Andrea Hanke
- Jürgen Vogel
- Christian Granderath
- Andreas Schreitmüller
Reviews
cineast78
**Courage to Tell Without Judging**
For those who can engage with a story where the creators have the courage to depict people without dividing their actions into what they "should" or "should not" do, without constantly playing the role of judge, and instead focusing on the subjective experience of these individuals, this film comes highly recommended.
It is not a "beautiful" film. There are no simple answers. But the emotions and experiences of the people involved are portrayed in a way that is intense, unfiltered, and realistic. So honest and raw that it hurts.
For everyone else, colorful Disney films are recommended. In those, there is always a "good" and a "bad," and everyone gets what they deserve according to the unrelenting moral judgment of the story.
Sadly, the reviews from the "morally superior" will likely be just as negative for Glasner's new film, as "grace" in their view is only reserved for the "good" ones...
Nov 12, 2024
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Free Will 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 Matthias Glasner 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 2006, 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 Free Will took approximately 27 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 163 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 207 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 37 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2006, when this film is released:
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Free Will shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Fulltime Killer, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Free Will subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Elizabethtown and Mona Lisa explore similar territory, The Free Will 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: August 23, 2006
- Runtime: 2h 43m
