Doktor Zhivago

Impressive adaptation of the novel. A big bow to all the main actors, particularly to the two "Olegs": Menshikov (playing Zhivago), who's superb as always and Yankovsky (playing Komarovsky). I found Menshikov's part very touching and credible, including the time spent with the partisans. He does look like he is gone through a lot. Yankovsky is very convincing in his part, very cold and charming. I would have aged him physically a bit more towards the end, but that is a minor issue. The musical score is beautiful, but then what do you expect from Artemev? Superb acting by the two main female roles as well.

As to the plot, very good adaptation. I believe, if my memory does not fail me, that the elements I identify as odd in the film come straight out of the novel (like the characters running into each other apparently by coincidence as the years go by). In that respect, not a flawless novel, but a pretty good script. I will re-read the novel.

Very poignant end. All in all a very recommendable film. A profoundly human story extraordinarily portrayed and played in yet another astounding Russian production. Applause and thanks.

PS. Just finished Boris Pasternak's novel. I believe the film script is an admirable adaptation, extremely forceful. It manages to convey the main ideas, brilliantly portrays Doctor Zhivago's character and mood. While it does not render all the shades of the complex love Lara and Tonia feel for Zhivago, the film avoids the many - in my view - unnecessary secondary characters, blind alleys and lengthy digressions found in this otherwise powerful novel.