Sukhodol

If - as likely - unfamiliar with the nation's book on which this is based

• (as adapted by the director, Alexsandra Srelyanaya) - might be better to

know that this is more about the 'Happenings to the servants in Dry Valley' ...

Since:

Typical in its way of Russian style of long, languid, seemingly do nothing shots and prolonged portentousness - almost photographically still in some shots of the characters involved* - yet out of which come some gorgeous painterly (sorta T. Malick) like countryside tableaux: in one mesmerising instant, involving a bride opining on her future, seemingly only natural light lit by her surrounding fellow flamelight holding women, is simply superb and reminiscent of Peter Greenaway's natural light treatments e.g.

In a similar candlelit set up in his the 'Draughtman's Contract'. Then soon after you get an astonishing dark into light effect almost a la Lynch in 'Lost Highway' which with that also being reminiscent of the well worn horror genre trope (it's behind you!), would there creepily thrill, as main actress Yana Esipovich** gently looms out of the darkness to answer her mistress. (**and being at age c. 21, yet portrays a far younger girl's naivete most believably.)

Hence, throughout what is otherwise a rather mundane story of how the Nineteenth century rich / landed ("nobility") elite (the owner is in the military) contemptuously treated their serfs, you'll be treated to some beautifully naturally lit shots, *in which some well chosen 'faces of character' - no doubt selected deliberately so by director Alexsandra, rather than for any acting - as oft seem cast to remain still and/or impassive, plus with their being also costumed pretty well too, in all their drabness.

Slow, meandering, but still, overall, visually delightful.

Being a fan of Russian film this one really hit the mark. The beautiful scenery, believable characters, excellent acting and compelling story was outstanding.

The lead actress was excellent as the simple village girl. The story line drifts from mystical to seemingly mundane but it captures 19th century Russia just a I would envision it was.

I confess that the plot was difficult to follow at times but overall I got it and I plan to watch again to catch the things I missed. It will be a pleasure to view again.

Bravo!