Sofi

"Sofi," the film of the play "Diary of a Madman," in turn based on Gogol's story, is a frankly amazing achievement. Engrossing, startling, a tour de force of acting, it is a rare one-character piece well worth a viewing. I'd love to find a copy of the film, but don't know where to begin.

I have never seen this film, but my father composed the music to the movie, when I was very, very young. I have been going through his warehouse of music, and I believe I have just found the two original film canisters (2) of the movie! They are large film canisters, octagonal in shape. Is it possible to restore this film, so that I can safely watch it? I certainly don't want to take any chances, as it looks like it could be a Master tape...? The canisters seem too big to be just the reels for the music alone, and they are not the proper shape for that. Amazing...I can't wait to see it! Thanks much for any advice or comments anyone might render, prior to my opening the canisters. Jill

One actor, two sets, and you never lose interest in what's going on. They don't make many movies like this. More is the pity. Considered a "lost" film, it is becoming available on videotape. Seek it out. It is, to use an over-used expression, a "must-see".

SOFI is one of the crown jewels of cinematic achievement that was nearly lost forever but has found it's was back into the world. A few companies still offer it and for that we can be thankful. Tom Troupe is exceptional as the single character seen for the entire 92 minutes of SOFI's running time as he descends into hopeless madness in his own private hell of not being socially fit to win his chief clerk's daughter's love. Troupe brings Gogol's short story DIARY OF A MADMAN to vivid life in a heart rendering performance that has to be seen to appreciate. If you have a love for great drama this is a wonderful film for you.

Tom Troupe is riveting in this one character film based on Nicolai Gogol's DIARY OF A MADMAN. The film manages an almost impossible feat...to make a 90 minute drama with one character work as a viable motion picture. The cinematography by Al Taylor is also incredible. The camera weaves in and out of the shadows and uses every inch of the claustrophobic set to perfection. A rare and personal achievement for actor and playwright Troupe. A landmark film that deserves rediscovery