The Tin Drum 1979
“A savage, sweeping epic of society in chaos.”
What is The Tin Drum?
The film The Tin Drum is set in the Free City of Danzig. Oskar Matzerath is a character in the story, and a significant event occurs in his life at age three.
- Type
- Film
- Year
- 1979
- Status
- Released
- Runtime
- 162 minutes
- Release date
- May 2, 1979
- Original language
- DE
- Origin
- France, Germany, Poland
- Studios
- Jadran Film, Artemis Film, Franz Seitz Filmproduktion
- Budget
- $3,000,000
- Revenue
- $17,000,000
- Genres
- Drama, History, War
- Updated
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Trailer
Overview
The film The Tin Drum is set in the Free City of Danzig. Oskar Matzerath is a character in the story, and a significant event occurs in his life at age three. This event involves a fall down a flight of stairs, which has a profound effect on Oskar, causing him to stop growing. The story takes place during a tumultuous period in history, with World War II breaking out in 1939. The film appears to explore the intersection of personal experience and historical context, with Oskar's life unfolding against the backdrop of significant global events. The fall down the stairs is a pivotal moment in Oskar's life, and it is likely that this event has a lasting impact on his development and worldview. The film's setting in the Free City of Danzig provides a unique historical and cultural context for the story to unfold.
Should you watch it?
“A child refuses to grow as Europe descends into war.”
- Cannes Palme d'Or winner
- Adaptation of Günter Grass's acclaimed novel
- Powerful depiction of society in chaos
- Lengthy runtime may feel demanding
- Contains mature and unsettling themes
Watch it if you appreciate award‑winning, historically grounded dramas that examine the absurdities of war.
The film’s intense war backdrop and unsettling imagery make it suitable for mature audiences.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the source material?
It is adapted from Günter Grass's 1959 novel "The Tin Drum".
Who directed the film?
Volker Schlöndorff directed the 1979 adaptation.
When was the film released?
The film premiered in 1979.
Did the film receive any major awards?
It was co‑winner of the Cannes Film Festival's Palme d'Or in 1979.
How long is the movie?
The runtime is approximately 2 hours and 42 minutes.