It's funny how several simple characters can be combined to create a complex storyline. While each character is unique, none of them are particularly interesting on their own. It's only when they interact that the story and the underlying array of emotions come to life.
As with many "war movies," you get the hardened veteran, the raw recruit, the inert, somewhat indifferent commander, and the worried mother. Each are truly one-dimensional and could not stand on their own to carry the film. But when combined, their synergy creates an absolutely engrossing story. They all draw the viewers into their world and don't let go. I couldn't have looked away even if I had wanted to.
Further, this film allows westerners a glimpse into a world they will likely never see firsthand. While the shots of the Dagestan mountains are impressive, the stark poverty found in what one assumes to be actual villages and dwellings in those mountains are both captivating and horrifying to the average western sensibilities. Not everyone in this world lives for the latest fad or gadget or is as pampered as the ones who need to watch this film the most. Even the Russian military base, a very realistic depiction, was hardly fit for western barnyard animals. Welcome, viewers, to how most of the world lives.
Now I must take exception to some of the other reviewers who try to explain Vanya's inability to fire on the enemy as a reflection of his" pacifism." It is obvious that those reviewers have never experienced the confusion of a combat situation - especially that of a poorly trained recruit in an ambush in unfamiliar terrain. If one doesn't know from where the fire is coming, one doesn't just start launching rounds indiscriminately in all directions. Additionally, these reviewers have never felt the fear of being on the receiving end of live rounds which can temporarily shutdown one's capacity to think clearly. Ignore their comments.
Overall, I must say this movie is well done and the actors fit perfectly into their roles. I definitely recommend this movie, and also, don't be off-put by some of the other comments about the slow moving story or the lack of action in what's supposed to be a war movie. This is a real story. If you want nonstop action, explosions, and shooting, rent a Schwarzenegger war picture.
As with many "war movies," you get the hardened veteran, the raw recruit, the inert, somewhat indifferent commander, and the worried mother. Each are truly one-dimensional and could not stand on their own to carry the film. But when combined, their synergy creates an absolutely engrossing story. They all draw the viewers into their world and don't let go. I couldn't have looked away even if I had wanted to.
Further, this film allows westerners a glimpse into a world they will likely never see firsthand. While the shots of the Dagestan mountains are impressive, the stark poverty found in what one assumes to be actual villages and dwellings in those mountains are both captivating and horrifying to the average western sensibilities. Not everyone in this world lives for the latest fad or gadget or is as pampered as the ones who need to watch this film the most. Even the Russian military base, a very realistic depiction, was hardly fit for western barnyard animals. Welcome, viewers, to how most of the world lives.
Now I must take exception to some of the other reviewers who try to explain Vanya's inability to fire on the enemy as a reflection of his" pacifism." It is obvious that those reviewers have never experienced the confusion of a combat situation - especially that of a poorly trained recruit in an ambush in unfamiliar terrain. If one doesn't know from where the fire is coming, one doesn't just start launching rounds indiscriminately in all directions. Additionally, these reviewers have never felt the fear of being on the receiving end of live rounds which can temporarily shutdown one's capacity to think clearly. Ignore their comments.
Overall, I must say this movie is well done and the actors fit perfectly into their roles. I definitely recommend this movie, and also, don't be off-put by some of the other comments about the slow moving story or the lack of action in what's supposed to be a war movie. This is a real story. If you want nonstop action, explosions, and shooting, rent a Schwarzenegger war picture.