Cast
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Crew
Director
- David Greene
Writer
- William Shakespeare
Producer
- Robert Hartung
- William Nichols
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Twelfth Night 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 David Greene 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 1957, 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 Twelfth Night took approximately 34 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 90 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 127 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 1812 individual shots.
- The musical score contains over 37 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1957, when this film was released:
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Twelfth Night shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Man in the Iron Mask, which focuses more on action than character development, Twelfth Night offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Accepted and Don't Mess with Grandma explore similar territory, Twelfth Night 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: December 15, 1957
- Runtime: 1h 30m
