Beginning of an Unknown Era

About This Movie

This film has a fascinating backstory, being a collaboration between two young directors who took the chance to adapt banned Russian literature. The atmosphere is thick with a sense of loss and reflection, particularly in the segment based on Olesha's 'Angel', which dives deep into the brutality of the post-revolutionary landscape. Pacing is deliberate, allowing the haunting visuals to settle in, and the performances carry a weight that feels very raw. It’s not flashy; rather, it uses practical effects to create an immersive experience, reflecting the starkness of the narratives. It’s one of those rare films that linger in your mind long after viewing, especially given its historical context and the fact it sat in the censor's vault for two decades.

This film has had a rocky journey in terms of availability, having spent twenty years locked away by censors. As a result, collectors find it quite scarce, and when copies do surface, they often command attention. Being released on limited formats over the years, the collector interest has certainly grown, especially for those who appreciate the layered storytelling and historical significance it represents.