Cast
View AllValentin Gaft
as Frank Goodwin
Nikolai Karachentsov
as Dicky Maloney
Armen Dzhigarkhanyan
as Billy Keogh
Ernst Romanov
as Beelzebub
Kakhi Kavsadze
as Sabas
Vaiva Mainelytė
as Isabel
Nelli Volshaninova
as Pasa
Rasmi Dzhabrailov
as Esteban
Vasili Chkhaidze
as Miraflores
Feliks Hilevych
as Violinist
Yuriy Dubrovin
as American Businessman
Nikolai Kazakov
as
Crew
Director
- Mykola Rasheiev
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Cabbages and Kings represents a fascinating example of Comedy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Mykola Rasheiev 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1979, 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 Cabbages and Kings took approximately 32 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 145 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 183 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 339 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1979, when this film was released:
- The Watergate scandal changed public perception of political institutions.
- Disco music dominated popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Cabbages and Kings shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Singin' in the Rain, which focuses more on action than character development, Cabbages and Kings subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Freddy and the Millionaire and Om Shanti Om explore similar territory, Cabbages and Kings 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: September 29, 1979
- Runtime: 2h 25m