Kalev

I don't really think I related with all the actions in the film, also the political connotations were rather out of date for a modern viewer. At some point you just don't really get involved in what's being shown and what is supposed to be exciting just becomes a little boring.

Probably older men who belong to the generation that were forced to live in the USSR can relate to the narrative and the whole fact of Estonia competing against the giant Russia was considered to be a sort of boost to the national awakening movement, but for a person of a younger generation, it's more like Why am I watching this film.

The film managed to keep a good tempo and stay engaging. Yes, the athletes looked like beer league players at times, but how big is the overlap between actors and basketball players anyway.

It is essentially a feel good drama but it does reflect a historically significant time period and an important achievement in Estonia's sporting history. They try to weave in some of these angles as well as the realities of being a pro basketball player in the Soviet Union (hint: it wasn't the lifestyle Jokic, Embiid and so on enjoy now). Truthfully, I was surprised that Tiit Sokk was presented almost as a bit player when he is perhaps Estonia's greatest basketball player ever.

I did think that a lot of scenes were a bit too instrumentalized, as though it was written by an engineer. Not a ton of subtlety or mystery... every scene seemed to have a pretty explicit purpose. Overall, though, I think people are watching it to learn about or relive this moment of national pride.

The movie has great pace and energy. It flies by and keeps the viewer engaged.

It is emotional, especially for someone who is connected to the country and the era, but not only. The times before Estonia regaining independence in 1991 were difficult and it is shown well in the film, as well as the situation in Lithuania and Latvia.

The movie created the historical accuracy well, using Soviet architecture, clothing, other items. Also, the use of accurate language, Russian, Estonian, English, makes it realistic.

Acting was very good, Mait Malmsten, Priit Võigemast and Reimo Sagor are superb in their roles.

It is interesting how difficult topics are handled, like hatred towards the occupying Russians while one of them is part of the Kalev team or when Estonians show disgust towards the team participating in the Soviet tournament. The Kalev coach said: It is people who play sports, not nationalities. So true, but sadly not as simple as we want it to be.

The movie is of great importance, especially now when Russia is still trying to recreate Soviet Union and is attacking Ukraine.

Overall definitely worth the watch.

The film is well-paced and time flies quickly, but it remained simple and a bit superficial for me.

I loved that film was historically with its Soviet architecture, clothes and people values. Also the dramatic events related to the re-independence of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are well conveyed, which is very relevant against the background of the current war in Ukraine.

However, everything was not as nice as I expected: I didn't like the fact that the tension of the basketball competition situation did not really arise, at least for the basketball player it was quite superficial and I didn't get the feeling that I was watching a real competition.

It was also surprising why Tiit Sokk as one of the game leaders was practically not covered. There is not even one dialogue in the film.

The acting was very good, especially Mait Malmsten, Priit Voigemast and Reimo Sagor.

Overall, the movie is worth watching, but definitely not as good as the critics have reported so far, and because of all the above, I can't give it more than 6-7 stars.

Kalev is a solid and engaging historical sports drama that brings to life a significant yet often overlooked moment in Baltic history-the Estonian basketball team's bid for victory during the final USSR Basketball Championship in 1991, just before the collapse of the Soviet Union. The film captures the era's spirit effectively, from Soviet architecture and fashion to the tense political atmosphere surrounding Estonia's fight for independence. Against the backdrop of current global tensions, this story resonates even more powerfully.

The pacing is commendably brisk, keeping the audience engaged throughout. Performances by Mait Malmsten, Priit Võigemast, and Reimo Sagor stand out, adding emotional depth and sincerity to the film. The decision to focus the narrative through the eyes of the coach and team manager rather than the players offers a refreshing perspective in the sports film genre.

However, Kalev doesn't fully rise to the heights that critics have claimed. Despite being based on an emotionally charged and inspiring true story, the film often feels formulaic. The basketball scenes lack the intensity typically expected in sports dramas, and key players are barely acknowledged, which feels like a missed opportunity.

While the film succeeds in blending historical commentary with sports drama and offers a heartfelt tribute to Estonia's past, it ultimately remains somewhat superficial in character development and emotional stakes. Still, it's a worthwhile watch-especially for those interested in Eastern European history or underdog stories-with a message of resilience and national pride that still holds meaning today.

All in all, Kalev is a compelling watch with historical value, and as someone who is not into sports, I liked it.