Backdrop preview Five backdrop
Five

Five (1951)

Apr 25, 1951 1h 33m Science Fiction Drama

The film's storyline involves five survivors, one woman and four men, of an atomic bomb disaster. The five come together at a remote, isolated hillside house, where they try to figure out how to survive.

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Directed by Arch Oboler

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Arch Oboler
Writer
  • Arch Oboler
Producer
  • Arch Oboler

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Five 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 Arch Oboler 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 1951, 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 Five took approximately 31 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 93 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 136 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
  • The musical score contains over 43 unique compositions.
  • The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.

Historical Context

  • In 1951, when this film was released:
  • Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
  • Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
  • The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.

How This Film Stands Out

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

Unlike Indra, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Five offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Phoenix the Warrior and Punishment Park explore similar territory, Five 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 25, 1951
  • Runtime: 1h 33m

Where to Watch

Amazon Prime Video
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