Lively, rushed Russian melodrama which was shot entirely outdoors and used genuine gypsies in its cast - which is probably why we clearly see a supposedly murdered woman take time out to scratch her nose.
3 Reviews
Lively & Unpredictable
Snow Leopard9 July 2004
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.
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.
Good early silent from Russia
billintucson321 October 2007
Good early silent one reeler that seems almost documentary like in execution (if somewhat crude) caters to the Russian predilection for tragedy. The simple plot moves quickly and is straight forward so we are able to follow it without any inter-titles.
According to the opening credits actual gypsies were used instead of professional actors but the acting styles are identical with that used in films made in other countries at the time, with the emphasis on broad theatrical gestures.
Unlike most American silents it is shot outdoors and while a bit melodramatic is still more interesting to watch and has more dramatic import than most films from this era.
According to the opening credits actual gypsies were used instead of professional actors but the acting styles are identical with that used in films made in other countries at the time, with the emphasis on broad theatrical gestures.
Unlike most American silents it is shot outdoors and while a bit melodramatic is still more interesting to watch and has more dramatic import than most films from this era.
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