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The Fortunate Ones

The Fortunate Ones

2024 1h 33m 5.8/10 Drama

Algarve, late 90s. Following the death of her grandmother, Milene - a strong young woman full of life despite a slight mental handicap - divides her life between her family of notables and a Cape Verdean family that keeps her going, whom she met when her grandmother died. The wind that whistles in the cranes plunges us into the world of two families against the backdrop of Portugal's recent past.

Cast

Rita Cabaço
Rita Cabaço

Milene

Milton Lopes
Milton Lopes

Antonino

Maria Fortes

Ana Mata

Isabel Cardoso
Isabel Cardoso

Felícia

Beatriz Batarda
Beatriz Batarda

Ângela Margarida

Carla Maciel
Carla Maciel

Gininha

Ruben Garcia
Ruben Garcia

Afonso

João Lagarto
João Lagarto

Rui Ludovice

Romeu Runa
Romeu Runa

Tio Dom

Cleo Diára
Cleo Diára

Claudina

Luís Lucas
Luís Lucas

Frutuoso

Cucha Carvalheiro
Cucha Carvalheiro

Juliana

Severa Reis

Conceição

Elísio Pereira

Domingos

Ana Zanatti
Ana Zanatti

Regina Leandro

Crew

Director
  • Jeanne Waltz
Writer
  • Jeanne Waltz
Producer
  • Joana Ferreira
  • Isabel Machado
  • Elena Tatti

Reviews

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, The Fortunate Ones examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Jeanne Waltz 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 2024, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of The Fortunate Ones took approximately 28 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 149 minutes long.
  • The musical score contains over 34 unique compositions.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.

Historical Context

  • In 2024, when this film is released:
  • Streaming platforms had largely replaced traditional cinema and television models.
  • The COVID-19 pandemic transformed global health, economics, and social interaction.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

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

Unlike Backyard, which focuses more on action than character development, The Fortunate Ones offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like The Fall from Heaven and Hi, I'm Growing Up explore similar territory, The Fortunate Ones 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: February 14, 2024
  • Runtime: 1h 33m