Cast
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Anna Friel
as Erzsébet Báthory
Karel Roden
as Juraj Thurzo
Vincent Regan
as Ferenc Nadasdy
Hans Matheson
as Merisi Caravaggio
Deana Horváthová
as Darvulia
Franco Nero
as King Mathias
Antony Byrne
as Pastor Ponicky
Bolek Polívka
as Monk Petr
Jiří Mádl
as Cyril
Monika Hilmerová
as Countess Czobor
Lucie Vondráčková
as Lucia
Julie Dreyfus
as Lady Katarina
Michaela Drotárová
as Erika
Jaromír Nosek
as Miklós Zrínyi
Marek Majeský
as Gábor Báthory
Crew
Director
- Juraj Jakubisko
Producer
- Mike Downey
- Deana Horváthová
- Zorana Piggott
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Bathory: Countess of Blood 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 Juraj Jakubisko 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 2008, 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 Bathory: Countess of Blood took approximately 10 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $17.6 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 141 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 168 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 2297 individual shots.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 2008, when this film is released:
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Bathory: Countess of Blood shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Midnights with Adam, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Bathory: Countess of Blood subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Le Divorce and Spokane explore similar territory, Bathory: Countess of Blood 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: July 10, 2008
- Runtime: 2h 21m
- Budget: $17,610,801
- Revenue: $7,005,528
