Kriminalas ekselences fonds

In recent years Latvian filmmakers have not done a great job at creating interesting, charismatic, funny, and enjoyable films for the big screen. But finally, it has changed. "The Foundation of Criminal Excellence" in my opinion is the first successful comedy produced in Latvia's modern times. Here is why.

First of all, the plot was very dynamic, interesting and above all, they represent real-life events that are relatable for some viewers. Actions that take place in this film are convincing and nonfictional. The plot exceptionally well represents this mystical time of uncertainty and chaos like in the late 80s/90s. I'd like to point out that this film had a good balance between comedy(mostly dark comedy, which latvians enjoy) and action, but at the same time the plot offered multiple storylines that all are connected in the end. These storylines each have a fascinating character with different goals.

Second of all, the camerawork and cinematography were superb. I liked all the different camera angles and static shots where the main character in the scene is always in the picture's center. Also the coloring throughout the film was amazing, it gave a retro feeling and suited the film's theme quite well. The music fitted with all scenes and made the film's atmosphere more authentic.

Third of all, I appreciated the work of the actors in almost every scene. Despite them not being professionals all lines, dialogs and actions were convincing and natural. Although some of the lines were a little bit too saturated with curse words. But do not get me wrong, I think that curse words were a brilliant idea and it gave this film aliveness and reality, just in some places they were not necessary. The fiscal appearances and the voice of the actors matched each character. When watching this film, there was never a feeling that the actor isn't suited for that role. Also the props were convincing and represented that time perfectly.

I must point out, that when I was at the cinema to watch this film, it was the first time when all the people laughed really loud. This fact alone proves that this film is a masterpiece and a good achievement for Latvia.

I strongly suggest you to watch this film and that's why it scores 9/10.

The movie relies too much on profanity. If you remove the swear words from the movie, you are left with a poorly made movie, which leaves you feeling like you wasted 2 hours of your life.

Sorry it was terrible. No logic at all. They are using too much swear words. Terrible characters and I think the plot isn't original. Definitely not a good Latvian comedy. A gift for a single women is still the best Latvian comedy!

I'm writing this review just after watching the movie. I chose this one from many others on the festival because of positive rating and reviews here on IMDB. I can agree that the movie is nicely made when it comes to camera work and visual aspects. We have retro scenery and quite realistic play. However, I just couldn't get any sense and almost any humour from it. A few moments that put a smile on my face were just nothing special and the last scene as per my taste - was just stupid in a non-funny way. Some people laughed, some other like me were wondering why others are laughing - so I think that was just about a cultural difference. There might be some cultural connotations I'm not aware of, so I just don't get what's funny. (normally in in one or two scenes... but in a whole movie?) I like comedies and I've watched many different, that one just didn't speak to me at all. I'm a big fan of cinema too and I watched hundreds of movies from many countries. For me that screenplay was absolutely nothing interesting - just like the screenplay that main character was trying to "sell". I should admit here that I watched the movie with English subtitles so there might have been a bad translation, but even then - a plot was just nothing exciting: two frustrated losers trying to do stupid things with no success in a crime excellencing nor making me laugh - that's how I would describe it. There were many such criminal comedies, mostly easy to whatch, stupid and funny - hence entertaining. As for me this one would almost fall into such category, but unfortunately it wasn't easy to whatch nor funny...

I don't like Latvian movies. Can appreciate some classics, but in general I will avoid anything coming from Latvian filmmaker. It's mostly due to acting - feels forced / theatre like. Plain and boring cinematography is another trademark and most plots are way too straight forward for my liking with nothing seemingly happening.

And then there is this. Probably the most interesting film we have now, it's definitely worth watching. It just feels... Different.

Cinematography is finally not bland, Film is filled with details / exposition, different camera angles are put in use. It really looks good throughout Plot is interesting and things actually do happen. Like other review here mentioned at some points it even has some surreal elements. Characters are fleshed out and acting feels genuine. At no point I thought I am watching the usual Shakespearean play, most Latvian actors are so keen to do

Oh and it is genuinely funny. Forgot to mention I don't like Latvian comedies. At least on the big screen. There are some funny short sketches, mostly older stuff, but in general I am not a fan. But boy oh boy, this movie had some really good moments. Nothing obnoxious, it was just the way I like it. The idea in movie of "how certain item was sold" was absolutely hilarious, still cracks me up.

The only off putting thing that I could think about, is the generally harsh language, suppose some might not like that. But it fits in, language is not forced it does feel appropriate to this narrative

Absolutely recommend to go watch this, it will pleasantly surprise you. It sure did me