Russian Ark (2002)
The Age
Wednesday January 2, 2008
Russian Ark (2002)
SBS, 1pmA bravura journey through Russian history, this film is sublimely directed by Alexandr Sokurov. It begins in the late 19th century with guests arriving for a ball at St Petersburg's Winter Palace on the banks of the River Neva. The film is a continuous 96-minute shot that moves through 33 rooms of the Hermitage Museum, filled with more than 2000 actors. However, its technical virtuosity pales compared to the narrative and interpretative riches to be had along the way. For those not familiar with Russian history, some of the figures may be obscure but it doesn't matter. This film is so astonishingly beautiful that you will be enchanted. And how can one not be awed at the sight of exquisitely dressed young girls swirling down an ornate corridor to discover the Imperial Family at breakfast, soon to be executed at Lenin's whim? Russian Ark is a profoundly moving tribute to a people's ability to survive any evil inflicted on them and the indomitability of the Russian spirit. -- SCOTT MURRAY
© 2008 The Age