Above all this film is very human. It appears both a criticism on humanity (society - at one point or another) and human frailty, and an uplifting story at the same time to show the best of humanity and humans as a whole. Their fears, courage, anger, hope, et cetera. On the whole it seems to follow the best of classic Russian literature in its themes.
Factual this film is not. Up to a point. The happenings aboard ship are mostly speculative. In this sense it follows other sea-disaster films such as Titanic. Politically sensitive perhaps, given the current Russian political climate, in relation to the west. But this film does not deserve to become a political tool for any side in the new cold war (more tepid, if you ask me, anyway). At worst, or best, this film is a single insight into how the Russia of today became the Russia it is today.
What will stay with me is the 90 year old Max von Sydow in his semi- villain role. He truly embodies his part. With only two Academy Award nominations to his name, I do hope he receives a lifetime achievement award before he leaves us (hopefully many years from now). Regretfully one of the last greats. Best wishes and high regards.
As a film, this seems to be a mostly Wallonian production (?), this film rises above its station. It makes me wonder what influence Luc Besson had?
Factual this film is not. Up to a point. The happenings aboard ship are mostly speculative. In this sense it follows other sea-disaster films such as Titanic. Politically sensitive perhaps, given the current Russian political climate, in relation to the west. But this film does not deserve to become a political tool for any side in the new cold war (more tepid, if you ask me, anyway). At worst, or best, this film is a single insight into how the Russia of today became the Russia it is today.
What will stay with me is the 90 year old Max von Sydow in his semi- villain role. He truly embodies his part. With only two Academy Award nominations to his name, I do hope he receives a lifetime achievement award before he leaves us (hopefully many years from now). Regretfully one of the last greats. Best wishes and high regards.
As a film, this seems to be a mostly Wallonian production (?), this film rises above its station. It makes me wonder what influence Luc Besson had?