Films/DVD Asylum

Posted by Victor Khomenko (M) on November 05, 2003 at 13:48:39

In Reply to: Russki War & Peace from 1967 posted by clarkjohnsen on November 05, 2003 at 13:36:21:

I have tapes.

I didn't like it when it came out, but then I was only 17 at that time.

Over the years I saw again bits and pieces with mixed emotions.

Finally a couple of years ago I bought the set of tapes.

Both my wife and I liked it.

But I have to warn you - you must be in the mood for Russian history and culture to appreciate it, or it might fall flat.

If you are properly primed, then the movie is joy to watch, with all that complexity and diverging and crossing story lines.

Knowing the actors also helps, as this movie was a significant stage in their development - all of them.

Many complained that Bondarchuk did not cast himself well as Pierre - maybe, but I did not find him objectionable, and he is not my favorite actor.

And the war... ah... the WAR!!! The 45 minute Borodino battle simply has no equals in the world cinema - believe me on that one. It is a must, as one must get fully absorbed in the mood of the war to really get the right sensation, and making that scene long plays positive role in that submersion.

It helps tremendously if you know the book, of course, as even that monumental movie leaves certain things unsaid.

And a great companion movie - Waterloo also by Bondarchuk... another battle masterpiece.