ed-1975

I enjoy watching Soviet Cinema (including all of Daneliya's films, Mimino being my all time favourite Soviet film) but have never come across as odd movie as this (not his usual style), certainly not a happy film, and could be described as an outright gloomy narrative permeating virtually every moment (along with acute social observations, very acute).

Incredibly haunting music, compelling performances but for me the brilliance of this film is its portrayal of average Soviet life back in the early 80's - it is like somebody has taken a slice out of the time period and bottled it, for that alone I am eternally grateful, for the insights are priceless.

Much underrated in my opinion and a gem of late Soviet cinema, Evgeniy Leonov again shows his brilliance.

What can I say, I'll keep it quick.

1. I knew within a few minutes this film was going to be excellent, we all have that feeling when we know if something is going to be exceptional.

2. Some of the dialogue was so hilarious I was literally crying with laughter, bordering on the genius some of the interactions were incredible, and that was just the subtitled version, in Korean I am sure it would have been mind-blowing.

3. It's the kind of film you will never forget, it is so truly unique I am fearing a Hollywood remake.

4. Cinematography was often breathtaking.

5. Acting was so good I'd call it perfect.

In many ways this film is so Russian that unless you are Russian or have spent a considerable time in Russia you may miss many of the subtler parts of this film - recurring motifs - but this does not detract from an absolutely intelligent and realistic film.

Heavy on symbolism I remained enthralled throughout, a deeply original and emotive work that will resonate in the mind long after viewing. A Masterpiece.

It deserves no less than the maximum 10/10.