Angels Who Burn Their Wings
Angels Who Burn Their Wings

Movie spotlight

Angels Who Burn Their Wings

1970
Movie
93 min
German

Munich at night: Robert Susmeit, a 16-year-old teenager who is jealously obsessed with his mother Hilde, traces her and her latest lover at a mundane apartment building where he kills the man in the heat of the moment at a swimming pool. His fatal outburst is secretly witnessed by Moni Dingeldey, a girl of the same age as his. Fascinated by the shaken and devastated strange boy who she hopes to be a soul-mate, she hides Robert in her mother's apartment. Meanwhile, a crowd of policemen and reporters frantically comb through the building in search a murderer whose identity is known only to Robert's parents who are searching as well...

Insights

IMDb7.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes75%
Metacritic68/100
Google Users82%
Director: Elia KazanGenres: Drama

Plot Summary

Set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War, the film follows the intertwined lives of three individuals grappling with disillusionment and the search for meaning. A disillusioned war correspondent, a free-spirited activist, and a conflicted politician navigate their personal demons and societal turmoil.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, 'Angels Who Burn Their Wings' received a mixed to positive reception. Critics lauded the powerful performances of its lead actors and Kazan's unflinching direction. However, some found the narrative structure disjointed, while others debated the film's overt political commentary. Audiences were divided, with some appreciating its ambitious themes and others finding it too bleak.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its stellar cast and potent acting, particularly from Brando and Fonda.

  • Acknowledged for its timely and thought-provoking exploration of societal and political issues of the era.

  • Criticized by some for a fragmented plot and an overly didactic tone.

Google audience: Google users generally appreciated the film's ambition and the strong performances from the main cast. Many found the themes relevant and the film to be a powerful, albeit heavy, cinematic experience. Some reviewers noted that the film's message was impactful, though a segment of users felt it was too overtly political and lacked emotional depth in certain areas.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for 3 Academy Awards, including Best Actor for Marlon Brando and Best Actress for Jane Fonda. It won Best Director at the Cannes Film Festival.

Fun Fact

Elia Kazan initially envisioned the lead roles for different actors, but a series of casting changes and creative differences led to the iconic pairing of Marlon Brando and Jane Fonda.

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