The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz
The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz

Movie spotlight

The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz

1974
Movie
120 min
English

The younger son of a working-class Jewish family in Montreal, Duddy Kravitz yearns to make a name for himself in society. This film chronicles his short and dubious rise to power, as well as his changing relationships with family and friends. Along the way the film explores the themes of anti-semitism and the responsibilities which come with adulthood.

Insights

IMDb7.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes93%
Metacritic70/100
Google Users91%
Director: Ted KotcheffGenres: Comedy-drama

Plot Summary

Set in Montreal, the film follows the ambitious and often unscrupulous Duddy Kravitz as he navigates his way through life, desperately seeking wealth and respect. Driven by a fierce desire to prove himself to his grandfather and escape the perceived limitations of his background, Duddy engages in a series of increasingly questionable business dealings. His journey is marked by a mix of shrewdness, manipulation, and a tragic loss of his moral compass.

Critical Reception

The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz was widely acclaimed by critics for its sharp wit, Richard Dreyfuss's powerhouse performance, and its insightful portrayal of ambition and its potential pitfalls. It resonated with audiences for its darkly comedic tone and its compelling, albeit flawed, protagonist.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for Richard Dreyfuss's electrifying and complex portrayal of the titular character.

  • Commended for its sharp, often biting, humor and its unflinching look at the corrupting nature of ambition.

  • Appreciated for its authentic depiction of Montreal and its specific cultural milieu.

Google audience: Audiences generally praise the film for its engaging story, Richard Dreyfuss's standout performance, and its dark humor. Many find Duddy to be a memorable and complex character, even as his actions are deplorable.

Awards & Accolades

Won the Golden Bear at the 18th Berlin International Film Festival. Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay.

Fun Fact

The film is based on the bestselling 1959 novel of the same name by Mordecai Richler, who also co-wrote the screenplay.

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