Stand

I have held off from reviewing this film and my anger at the situation in Russia towards LGBTQ people has somehow prevented me. I believe that this film was made outside of Russia with brave Russian actors and with that belief I did not want to draw attention to this self explanatory fact. How could it be made there or even seen there given the tyranny that is happening in Russia ? It is the Russian film that dare not speak its name, and as much as I love the classics of Russian cinema I know fully well it will never join them. Most people in Russia, and I am not talking about Moscow or Petersburg, but further afield in places like Ufa and Cheboksary where American popcorn pap are the major diet, have never seen a Sokurov, Tarkovsky or Paradjanov film, never mind this. They have never heard of this great film.

No spoilers, but just to say watch this and be very afraid. This will be Poland and Hungary if we are not vigilant. There too there will be death hunts in dark forests, and your friend will be your enemy. But I beg anyone who has seen this film available certainly on DVD in the UK to force it on friends, relatives and neighbours. It is not a Gay film by any stretch of the imagination, so forget your prejudice kind straight readers. This is about the heart of darkness itself, and what it is to know that loving openly means to die.

I did enjoy the movie the leads were great. The film does do a great job and showing how it must be to be in a country like Russia.

You see the end coming but the end end is great. The movie per se can be slow and a bit too long, but the message is simply beautiful.

In a bit shell

Pros 1. The leads, both guys are great on their respective parts and the chemistry they share is fascinating.

2. The message is powerful and the film does convey it outstandingly.

3. The story, so relevant to this day and eta

Cons.

1. It could have been shorter but I get it for the message the film wants to remark 2. It can be a bit too slowly 3. Choppy support cast.

I was fortunate to be at the premier of the movie at the Castro theater in San Francisco, CA. The film impressed me by how it captured not just the situation regarding LGBTQ issues in Russia but also the Russian mentality. Being from Russia, I felt like it was easier for me to understand some of the details and realities presented in the film. I found myself explaining some things to Americans around me. Although hard to watch, it is well worth it. The story is well written with some important details that explain some of the cultural specifics. It does require careful watching and paying attention. This is not a light movie. The main characters of Anton and Vlad are well acted. Although they represent two different positions, different ways of living and dealing with issues, I could relate to and empathize with both. The movie is complex, heart-breaking, and thought-provoking. I hope this movie can reach a wide audience.