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catherineskoularikis
Reviews
Suburra - La serie (2017)
Italian Neorealism gem
Suburra is a series that I'd characterize as a masterpiece. A gripping story that shows the decadence and moral decline of people, institutions, politics, sub-cultures, the whole society behind the beautiful facade of the Eternal City. Dark, gloomy, ugly is the other face of the city, portrayed with ruthless realism. The characters having their own demons and heavy burdens on their shoulders are deep and real, each weaving a web of filth that is growing bigger and bigger as the story develops. It's not about the balck and white, but the grey of the human nature. Amazing cinematography dressed with sublime music, an excellent cast, well-chosen settings. I have watched it twice already and I'm going for the third time. Because rare gems like that you can't just let go.
Khozhdenie po mukam (2017)
For the love of Russia
A superb historical drama in all respects. Amazing cinematography, sets, music, costumes, epic scenes that transfer us to Russia in this turbulent time of its history. As it's based on the book by Alexey Tolstoy, credits for the story and the characters should be given to him. What captured me was the depth and realistic depiction of the heroes. Their conflicting emotions and responses to the unexpected and sudden turn of events that are out of their control. It is not just a "love story" as some viewers have called it; that would be degrading to the story itself. It is a story about Russia, the people who claiming / believing they love it did horrible things in the name of this love. It is not a coincidence that all the characters, who represent all different social classes and interests, say the same: "We do it for Russia", "We have to save the motherland", "We need a new Russia". All well-said and well-intended but with the consequences that history showed this "love" had.