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Reviews
Sibirskiy tsiryulnik (1998)
For Mozart
I'm not a great fan of Nikita Mikhalkov and Russian cinematography, but I must confess that this is a masterpiece. It shows the things that Russians can be proud of - old bright traditions and customs, their devotion to their country, the trades of character that are typical to the Russians and the power of their country that has been growing more and more with the time. I think it's a great chance for the strangers to get acquainted with the epoch of tsarism - both majestic and contradictory.
As for the main love line of the story I must say it's gorgeous. Affection between a young shy guy and an experienced woman who was making her business through lies and flirtation - astonishes from the first sight. If it was a soap opera, we would be disappointed with the happy end. But the final of this story - even more tragic than anyone could imagine - strikes you most. Frankly speaking, I kept a hope that everything could somehow be all right. Unfortunately, it didn't. But that story was haunting me for days after watching. It proves that incredible impressions that one can have after this movie.
I liked the peculiar comparison of Russians and Americans. It was interesting to watch how Jane was trying to know the secret of Russian stubbornness and obsession with principles. She could hardly make a step to the total comprehension of such things. Well, I doubt whether anyone succeeded.
Also I revealed that Julia Ormond is a perfect actress, cause she did a wonderful job in this movie. As for Oleg Menshikov and the other Russian actors, they were great as well. Nikita Mikhalkov proved once more that he is a skillful and talented director.
So take pleasure while watching. It is certainly a worthy picture.
Brigada (2002)
10 out of 10
You know, I remember the time when all the kids were trying to look and act like Sasha Bely and his fellows. There were different bands in the streets, who called themselves "Brigada" and they thought that they were cool. It was hysteria and obsession. But it proves the great influence this movie can have on you.
Actually, it happened for real. All this Russian mafia, brutality, numerous crimes really took place when the era of Soviet Union was coming to its final. The only drawback of the movie that Sasha Bely and his band seem to be heroes, but in fact they were just criminals. Though it's a film, isn't it?
Those who do not like criminal dramas can find there a wonderful story of friendship and love, and excellent playing. Actors have done a wonderful job. So enjoy the movie!
Pearl Harbor (2001)
Worth watching
Well, I liked it. The general idea is nice. A story about one of the most tragic episodes of the US history, depicting national heroes that did their best to save the country. We can see Americans as a strongly united nation, true patriots of their country. Although some historical inaccuracy takes place, the battles, events and emotions the heroes came through look really impressive.
The movie also touches upon some other eternal themes like friendship and love. Do you think it has never happened for real? I think it has. Every soldier had to leave something dear to him - family, girlfriend, friend whatever. The war brought a great loss to most people who took part in it and that is a suitable scene for such a film.
The actors and Michael Bay did a great job. It looks naturally and impressive. And it keeps your attention till the end. While watching I didn't want to switch off. And I doubt whether anyone did. So it's worth watching.