Cast
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Aleksei Buldakov
as Paromov
Sergey Kupriyanov
as Andrey Iveren
Aleksandr Smirnov
as Private Khaustov
Vasiliy Domrachyov
as Private Nishchenkin
Aleksey Poluyan
as Mazur
Taras Denysenko
as Korchenyuk
Andrei Zertsalov
as Conductor
Dmitriy Iosifov
as Zhokhin
Rinat Ibragimov
as Rinat Ibragimov
Mikhail Kirilyuk
as
Aleksey Zaytsev
as Convict
Valery Kravchenko
as Khorkov
Nikita Mikhajlovsky
as Convict
Vladimir Yurev
as
Pavel Kornakov
as
Crew
Director
- Aleksandr Rogozhkin
Writer
- Ivan Loshchilin
Producer
- Andrei Zertsalov
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Guard 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 Aleksandr Rogozhkin 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 1990, 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 The Guard took approximately 16 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 96 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 131 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 107 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The musical score contains over 49 unique compositions.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1990, when this film was released:
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Guard shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Sniper, which focuses more on action than character development, The Guard subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Double Impact and The Order explore similar territory, The Guard 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: August 1, 1990
- Runtime: 1h 36m
