Tin Drum, The
The adaptation of the Günther Grass novel combines surreal imagery and straightforward storytelling. Oskar born to a German rural family in the 1920s, becomes disgusted with the behavior of adults and decides on his third birthday, not to grow any more preferring instead to beat his tin drum (a birthday present) and shatter glass with his shrill scream. As he "ages" little Oskar continues to observe the hypocritical behavior of adults, beating out a constant tattoo on his tin drum to control the world around him. His small stature also makes for every peculiar relationship with a teenage girl, Maria, who is also mistress to a much older, and bigger man. A disturbing film, rich with black humor, that takes a decidedly bitter and horrific look at the German people. Director frames a piercing study of the origins of the German nightmare and the rise of Nazism through national complacency. Only Oskar, in his singularly demented way, is the voice of reason, proclaiming "Once there was a credulous nation who believed in Santa Claus, but Santa Claus turned out to be the gas man." The film is downright frightening, especially due to the haunting face of 12 year old actor Bennent.
Germany
'
1979
'
1979
Script
Franz Seitz
Jean-Claude Carrière
V. Schlödorff
Franz Seitz
Jean-Claude Carrière
V. Schlödorff
Cinematography
Igor Luther
Igor Luther
Editing
Suzanne baron
Suzanne baron
Production
Artemis
Artemis
Cast
Andrea Ferreol
Angela Winkler
Charles Aznavour
Daniel Olbrychski
David Bennett
Fritz Hakl
Heinz Bennent
Katharina Thalbach
Mariella Oliveri
Mario Adorf
Andrea Ferreol
Angela Winkler
Charles Aznavour
Daniel Olbrychski
David Bennett
Fritz Hakl
Heinz Bennent
Katharina Thalbach
Mariella Oliveri
Mario Adorf
Music
Friedrich Meyer
Maurice Jarre
Friedrich Meyer
Maurice Jarre
Awards
Best Foreign Film Oscar 1979 Golden Palm
Best Foreign Film Oscar 1979 Golden Palm
Festivals
3rd Festival on Wheels
BEST OF EUROPE
3rd Festival on Wheels
BEST OF EUROPE