Films/DVD Asylum

Posted by afilado (A) on January 21, 2010 at 16:30:34

In Reply to: RE: "12:" from Russia comes a remake of the American film from 1957, posted by Wendell Narrod on January 21, 2010 at 15:26:57

in a melodramatic kind of way. Characterizations were boldly drawn, if not at times over the top.

I'm not familiar with the Russian justice system but it seemed to be a Russian film exercise on a thoroughly U.S. theme. We all know the outcome; the getting there did not carry the same serious tone or gravitas as did the American film. It is somewhat a rolic. A novelty for a Russian audience, maybe?

Did not quite ring true to my American sensibility. As if someone were speaking a non-native language perfectly as far as grammar, rich vocabulary, etc. are concerned but with an incongruous, non-ironic heavy accent.

There's an unexpected, not terribly original little twist at the end but for the most part it's not quite believable that 12 Russians of such disparate backgrounds would reach such an equitable, idealistic decision.

Some highly accomplished actors who have all done more satisfying work elsewhere.

Not worth a second viewing for me.

Edits: 01/21/10