Cast
View AllAndré Baruch
as Narrator (segment "Justice: 8 Little Nazis Are Executed") (voice) (archive footage)
Jackson Beck
as Narrator (segment "Death: A Nazi War Criminal Pays for His Crime") (voice) (archive footage)
Adolf Hitler
as Self (archive footage)
Benito Mussolini
as Self (archive footage)
Kazuko Oshima
as Narrator (segment "Hiroshima Nagasaki August, 1945") (voice) (archive footage)
Paul Ronder
as Narrator (segment "Hiroshima Nagasaki August, 1945") (voice) (archive footage)
Dwight Weist
as Narrator (multiple segments) (voice) (archive footage)
Crew
Writer
- Geof Bartz
Producer
- Erik Barnouw
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
The Camps of Death represents a fascinating example of Documentary 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.
Released in 1983, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Camps of Death took approximately 17 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 60 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 94 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 6 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.
- The costume department created over 280 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1983, when this film was released:
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Camps of Death shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Operation Mincemeat, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Camps of Death subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Breakpoint: A Counter History of Progress and Iwo Jima: 36 Days of Hell explore similar territory, The Camps of Death 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: January 1, 1983
- Runtime: 1h
