Drama v tabore podmoskovnykh tsygan (1908)

Director:

Vladimir Siversen

Writer:

Vladimir Siversen (writer)

Release Date:

20 December 1908 (Russia)

Genre:

Short | Drama

Plot:

A group of gypsies has camped near Moscow. While the others are sleeping, a young gypsy woman slips away from camp with a man who loves her...

Also Known As:

Drama in a Gypsy Camp Near Moscow (International: English title)

Runtime:

2 min

Country:

Russia

Color:

Black and White

Sound Mix:

Silent

Company:

Khanzhonkov

Lively & Unpredictable

This early Russian short feature is lively, unpredictable, and worth seeing. The story centers on a camp of gypsies, and in filming it they actually used a band of gypsies, rather than professional actors. This seems to give some energy to the story. It was also filmed outdoors, and the photography makes good use of the setting. While in some respects unrefined, it uses its resources well, and shows some creativity.

The story starts with a young gypsy woman who has found a lover, and then follows the consequences of their relationship. It's a fairly simple story, and it is also the general kind of story that was relatively common (though usually with a different kind of setting) in the era. But while "Drama in a Gypsy Camp Near Moscow" treats a serious subject, it avoids the common hazards of seeming heavy, preachy, or contrived. It also contains a good amount of action for such a short running time. Despite the inexperience of the cast and crew, it compares relatively well with similar movies of its era.