Rocky Road to Berlin

"As for me, I can only forgive a genius for a poorly constructed poem, and even then not always. Ukrainian poets should be banned for some time from writing national-patriotic poems, then, perhaps, they would rather learn versification, forced to do so by lyrics and translations, and now they rely most on the patriotism of their readers, and not on their own rhyme and measure ." Lesya Ukrainka

The creators of this movie also hoped for patriotism and national love for Scriabin. A high-quality picture and flat humor are two pillars on which this film was supposed to stand. Instead it staggered, fell, rose and fell again, creaked and screeched like that old car, spewing illogical details, rusty cliche jokes and inappropriate campiness in the face of a gullible viewer. Lowering my expectations in advance, I expected at least a small effort to explore the whimsical bardic nature of Scriabin's genius, but I received a complete misunderstanding of his phenomenon, a complete failure to fall into the obvious archetypes that made up his world. As they say, if you don't know how to make something well, don't do it at all.

Kuzma looks like a brainless schoolboy, a character development is nowhere to be found. As a result, the vinaigrette turned out to be vinaigrette, at most only to be watched once and then with a stretch

Yes, I can also read Russian cinema's influence in this attempt of a film. These sleazy jokes about the Poles, the Germans are shown as some kind of latex fascists, the Turks are also stereotyped.

With Skriabin's popularity and his masterful book filled with wit and humor, the creators of this movie had trump cards in their hands ALREADY. No need to invent a bicycle. But they managed to make it as boring and distasteful as they could, Skriabin persona was used for their marketing purposes.

From pluses: I see good cinematography even though camera work from time to time looked like advertisement in tv. I also see potential in young actors. Styling was pretty good too, even though a bit cliche.

I hope you would not watch this movie and save both your time and positive image of Ukraine, and one of its prominent talents in particular. I'd like to praise its soundtrack score, as modern musicians have shown their abilities the best, out of cheap budget, horrendous acting and disgusting writing they've managed to pull a few bearable tributes to "Skryabin" (not Ukrainian classic composer, but 90s synthy-pop band). The latter, being first goth scene success after restoration of independence has gained cult status and following of various degree of influence on mine and other generations of Ukrainians, which might explain suspiciously high rating so far. However, the writer of original book's personality is deserving a mention, as Andriy Kuzmenko has not just led the band as a singer, but also published more mature fiction and demonstrated versatile and impactful cultural creativity also as a TV-host, reality show participant, producer of successful and popular bands, etc. Together with Alexander Skryabin (yes, that's how their band got named), Andriy (nicknamed Kuzma after his last name) have fired the remaining founding members of their band and pivoted from alternative to pop music after recording a Manifesto song in early 2000s. After that, the band was earning riches and wider audience by spreading Russian propaganda against Maidan until the first days of war in 2014, when many Ukrainian artists have supported our Motherland and its Freedom fighters. The band Skryabin was replaced by Kuzma touring with vehemently humorous and energetic anti-occupation message, and have died shortly in a car crash while returning from a volunteer trip from the frontline. This has cleared his name and earned him a monument erected in heart of Lviv (capital of his native region). Thus, I guess, the fate of government grant for movie was sealed. However, in addition to above mentioned flows, the easy reading teenage road story selected has suffered plot changed potentially to worse. For example, the mafia, encountered at the Ukrainian border in the book meet their demise, while movie leaves this adventure unfinished, or take the Marijuana smuggling - its recent legalization in Germany does not make the supporting character's actions acceptable to Ukrainian audience, etc.

The film is a masterpiece full of music and humour. I'd like to highlight the brilliant cinematography. I've been astonished the Ukrainians managed to release a film of such high quality during the war. Not every Hollywood movie can compete with this work of art.

The songs, well known to every Ukrainian and friend of Ukraine, create a special atmosphere, although they sound in a new performance.

What choice will the main character make? The film keeps the intrigue from the beginning to the very end. And the audience, holding their breath, cheers for him to choose himself.

I watched the film in a cinema in Kyiv and not a single audience member got up and left until the final credits rolled. Why? Watch the film for yourself and find out.

As stated at posters, the movie was based on the story written by Kuzma Scriabin. Unfortunately, here we have a very free interpretation of the book, storyline hasn't been changed for the better. As a result, not a screen adaptation of the story, but a musical movie was released, in which the authors managed to insert a dozen and a half music tracks, unfortunately, not always appropriate. At the same time, the Scriabin's tracks themselves performed by other artists sound great.

The visual image of Kuzma implemented successful, which cannot be said about the character and behavior of the hero - always twitchy, constantly (and often inappropriately) smiling, infantile.

The hero does not win over the audience of the movie.

On the other hand, the images of Bard and Barbara played perfectly.

Unfortunately, there are on-screen clichés that look strange in the movie of 2024: some strange fights, a hackneyed plot with a rescued girl who comes to help of the hero later in the plot. A strange performance at the stage of a rock club with a pop song, which was received with a bang by the audience. A stupid and failed artistic images of customs officers and gangsters at a custom.

The "German" part of the movie wasn't bad, but it could have been improved in terms of humor and gags.

The authors position the movie as a comedy, but the humor is quite simple, there are a couple of really funny moments throughout the whole movie.

If you have read the book itself or listened to the audio version of the story with Kuzma's excellent voice acting - it is better not to go to watch this movie, so as not to be disappointed.

If you like Scriabin's music - then this is the movie for you. Go to listen to the countless well played audio tracks included in the movie, and then listen to the audiobook to enjoy the first person story.

Out of respect for the efforts of filming crew and as an advance 7/10. Although of course 6/10 - a movie for one viewing, not a great one.

I am glad that lately Ukrainian cinema has come to life a little bit and worthwhile films are appearing.

Watch Ukrainian movies!

================== Added later: P. S. It's always funny to read "user" review for movie left by it's filmmaker. In our case a cameraman Dmitriy Nedria estimated his movie 10/10 using epithets like: "exceptional film", "cinematic gem" and "filmmakers have taken great care in bringing the book to life on screen".

Anyway, cameraman's work is not bad, it deserves respect :)

"Rocky Road to Berlin" is an exceptional film that does more than just tell a story; it transports us into the life and essence of Kuzma Skrabin with astounding accuracy. The filmmakers have taken great care in bringing the book to life on screen, ensuring every detail, from the character portrayal to the narrative pacing, aligns perfectly with the original material. The dedication to authenticity is evident throughout the movie, making it a profound experience for viewers familiar with Skrabin's work and life.

Beyond the accurate depiction of Skrabin's character, the film captures the 90s vibe in a way that's nothing short of amazing. The attention to period-specific details, from the costume design to the soundtrack, not only enriches the narrative but also serves as a nostalgic trip for anyone who holds a fondness for that era.

"Rocky Road to Berlin" is a cinematic gem that deserves more than just a watch; it's a must-see movie that demands to be experienced. Whether you're a fan of Kuzma Skrabin, a lover of biographical films, or someone who appreciates the immersive experience of 90s culture, this movie will not disappoint. A rare blend of historical accuracy and captivating storytelling, this film is a testament to the power of cinema to preserve and celebrate our cultural heroes.