Cast
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Derek Jacobi
as Cyrano de Bergerac
John Carlisle
as Le Comte de Guiche
John Bowe
as Le Bret
Pete Postlethwaite
as Ragueneau
Tom Mannion
as Christian de Neuvillette
Sinéad Cusack
as Roxanne
Jimmy Gardner
as Doorkeeper / Capuchin
Richard Clifford
as Cavalryman / Gascony Cadet
Robert Clare
as D'Artagnan / Gascony Cadet
Philip Dennis
as Flunkey / Gascony Cadet
John Tramper
as Flunkey / Gascony Cadet
Geoffrey Freshwater
as Musketeer
Alexandra Brook
as Flowergirl / Sister Claire
Phillip Walsh
as Drinker / Gascony Cadet
Simon Clark
as Citizen / Gascony Cadet
Crew
Director
- Terry Hands
- Michael A. Simpson
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Cyrano de Bergerac 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 Terry Hands 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 1985, 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 Cyrano de Bergerac took approximately 27 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 176 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 197 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 6 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 1176 individual shots.
- The costume department created over 227 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1985, when this film was released:
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Cyrano de Bergerac shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Little Thief, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Cyrano de Bergerac offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Narcissus and Psyche and My Life as a Dog explore similar territory, Cyrano de Bergerac 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 26, 1985
- Runtime: 2h 56m
