Cast
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Antoine de Caunes
as Simon Eskenazy
Elsa Zylberstein
as Rosalie Baumann
Gad Elmaleh
as David Eskenazi
Michel Aumont
as Uncle Salomon
Judith Magre
as Simon's mother
Maurice Bénichou
as Rosalie's father
Catherine Hiegel
as Rosalie's mother
Stéphane Metzger
as Daniel Baumann
Edwin Gerard
as Yitshak Baumann
Noëlla Dussart
as Nathalie
Jean-François Dérec
as Jean-Rene
Sacha Santon
as Samuel Baumann
Gilles Atlan
as Elisser Baumann
Irene Zilbermann
as Lady in red
Jesse Joe Walsh
as Rabbi Fisher
Crew
Director
- Jean-Jacques Zilbermann
Writer
- Gilles Taurand
Producer
- Régine Konckier
- Jean-Luc Ormières
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Man Is a Woman represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Romance 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 Jean-Jacques Zilbermann 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 1998, 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 Man Is a Woman took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 100 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 131 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
- The screenplay went through 10 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1998, when this film was released:
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Man Is a Woman shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Click, which focuses more on action than character development, Man Is a Woman subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Private Parts and Wish You explore similar territory, Man Is a Woman stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: March 11, 1998
- Runtime: 1h 40m
