Cast
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Adrien Brody
as Władysław 'Władek' Szpilman
Thomas Kretschmann
as Captain Wilm Hosenfeld
Frank Finlay
as Father
Maureen Lipman
as Mother
Emilia Fox
as Dorota
Ed Stoppard
as Henryk Szpilman
Julia Rayner
as Regina Szpilman
Jessica Kate Meyer
as Halina Szpilman
Michał Żebrowski
as Jurek
Wanja Mues
as SS Slapping Father
Richard Ridings
as Mr. Lipa
Nomi Sharron
as Feather Woman
Anthony Milner
as Man Waiting to Cross
Lucy Skeaping
as Street Musician
Roddy Skeaping
as Street Musician
Crew
Director
- Roman Polanski
Producer
- Roman Polanski
- Alain Sarde
- Robert Benmussa
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Pianist 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 Roman Polanski 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 2002, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Pianist took approximately 25 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $35.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 150 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 191 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 1550 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 2002, when this film is released:
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Pianist shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Promise at Dawn, which focuses more on action than character development, The Pianist offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Edge and He Got Game explore similar territory, The Pianist 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: September 17, 2002
- Runtime: 2h 30m
- Budget: $35,000,000
- Revenue: $120,098,945
Where to Watch
