limeberry7

I grew up watching Richard and Depardeau collaborations. So, their pairing always has a bit of nostalgia attached to the mere pairing of their names together.

This TV short based on Chekhov's writing has a silly plot. In some small Russian town, local sexually unsatisfied women go to the local hobo and feed him for sexual favors he provides to them. One particular woman Agafia decides to go further... The production team did their best to create the Russian ambiance and dress the characters a la Russe.

In the end everything is so terrible, on purpose or not, it's super funny, and tolerable just enough for 20 minutes.

The quote, often attributed to Pericles, aptly encapsulates the overarching theme of the movie and the era it depicts: "Just because you do not take an interest in politics doesn't mean politics won't take an interest in you." This statement underscores the interconnectedness of personal lives and political circumstances.

The movie portrays an ordinary family akin to a ship adrift, navigating the tumultuous seas of life without a clear course. Struggling to stay afloat, the family mirrors the broader challenges faced by the nation they inhabit. In their quest for the meaning of life, they grapple with the uncertainties that echo the very struggles of their country.

This cinematic narrative draws a poignant parallel between the microcosm of individual existence and the macrocosm of national destiny, emphasizing how the currents of politics inevitably shape the lives of ordinary people. The family's pursuit of purpose and resilience mirrors the collective endeavor of the nation to navigate its own uncertain path, making for a compelling exploration of the human experience within the context of broader socio-political landscapes.

In a snapshot of Russia's historical juncture, the Director subtly hints at the contemporary landscape where well-intentioned citizens may face undermining from apathetic compatriots, governmental structures, and the media.

Despite its potential as an Oscar contender, the film faces an unfortunate setback due to Russia's decision to suspend its Oscar Committee. This move reflects the broader impact of the current political climate on international art exchange.

This film undoubtedly ranks among the most disappointing cinematic experiences I've encountered. It fails to elicit any genuine humor and, instead, proves to be an insufferable ordeal. One can't help but question the motivations behind its creation-why would anyone pen, produce, and dare to involve respected actors in a project so detrimental to their reputations?

The movie's contemptuous attitude towards the audience is palpable, leaving us wondering why the filmmakers have such disregard for our valuable time. Each scene unfolds with a sense of purposelessness, accompanied by dialogue that lacks any meaningful significance. In the words of the esteemed Roger Ebert, "No good movie is long enough, and no bad movie is short enough," and this film unmistakably falls into the latter category.

In essence, this movie is an infuriating and regrettable piece of cinematic waste, leaving viewers perplexed by its existence and the talents it squanders.