redhairedjim

This beautiful picture represents the loveliest trend of the modern Russian cinema (that largely consists of cheap action movies and lachrymose dramas) - a definite piece of art and a work of an Author, a story that truthfully and painfully reflects city life from the confused point of view of an outsider, dreamer, youngster. "Rusalka" is often compared to "Progulka" (2003) and "Piter FM" (2006), as in this respect these films are kindred to "Rusalka", never mentioning the fact that they all star Yevgeni Tsyganov - the new Russian Gael García Bernal type. However, watching "Rusalka" aches more than two before-mentioned pictures, for it doesn't lie for the sake of good mood. "Rusalka" is sometimes also called "Amélie Poulain in Moscow" because of the expressive and charming character of the heroine who believes that life is a beautiful and never-ending mystery; however, "Rusalka" goes farther than "Amélie", openly showing that City is not only a place of romance and unexpected adventures, but in fact a get-together of very very lonely people who find each other to remain alone. "Such things do happen in megapoles. Seriously, no big deal. Such things do happen." This might hurt.

The film grants you 1 hour and 40 minutes of pleasure and fun, watching how the sparkling champagne girl Audrey Tautou polishes up the rough cub presented by Gad Elmaleh, an actor who in his own strange way possesses some kind of irresistible charm. It is also amazing how easy and encouragingly the movie interprets the profession of a modern hooker, turning it into a free-and-easy glamorous lifestyle.

Hors de prix is a commercial entertainment; however, it is undoubtedly a well done piece of art. Let's not forget that more or less everyone is able to make an original authorfilm, whilst it takes an effort to create a genre work of quality. I am thankful to the director who has convinced me that there still are some people who live and love truly and do not hesitate to give their last Euro away to buy ten seconds of happiness.

"Notes on a Scandal" is one of the best films of the year - a frightening picture about a tragedy that is provoked by misunderstood conception of tenderness and infected love. What happens when our demons leave their hideouts and skeletons come out of our cupboards? The film will give some ominous answers. It assures that a broken life can produce but other broken lives and even most inhuman evil is no more than aftermath of inhuman pain and emptiness. Plus, a shocking demonstration of outstanding acting by Judy Dench and Cate Blanchett, one as an emotional Frankenstein, thirsty for love and understanding, other as a self-destructively and enchantingly attractive victim, both performances accompanied by Philip Glass's musical hypnosis.