I had some expectations about this movie because found it quite interesting to see about modern guys happened to appear in actions of the World War II. But I found that movie is not all about that. And I wasn't disappointed. The movie is truly very original, it contains humor, sadness, love and war altogether and some important messages. Yes, special effects there are not great, but they shouldn't be, because this film isn't about that, this is about the tragedy that war is. This is about not forgetting what the war is, never forgetting. And this message is staying in your head for a long time after the end of the film. Also I think actors did their job quite well(specifically a nurse girl, I was so charmed of her), especially taking into account that for most of them it was the first relatively big movie(for Russia of course)
12 Reviews
Your heart is where your roots are
njumeil8 June 2009
This movie is not about time travel. It is about the present and the past. There is no present without the past. If you forget, destroy your past in your heart - you and your nation have no future. Cherep (Skull) is a modern radical nationalist in the modern Russia. The other three guys represent other parts of Russian society: student, that gave up on studies for some quick buck, rapper-anti-fa and fourth one - "golden boy". Lost generation, but with a hope.
Their world is going to turn upside down. They all get into the past, to the middle of WWII, where they grandfathers fight with Hitler's Germany. Lessons are to be learned for a present and for the future to be saved.
Imagine someone who gives his life for the his motherland to be told: "In the XXI century, men, dressed in black, will walk on the streets of Moscow and shout "Heil Hitler." If you don't get it, switch "Moscow" to "New York" or the city you live in, and you will understand.
Their world is going to turn upside down. They all get into the past, to the middle of WWII, where they grandfathers fight with Hitler's Germany. Lessons are to be learned for a present and for the future to be saved.
Imagine someone who gives his life for the his motherland to be told: "In the XXI century, men, dressed in black, will walk on the streets of Moscow and shout "Heil Hitler." If you don't get it, switch "Moscow" to "New York" or the city you live in, and you will understand.
It's about appreciating what your ancestors fought for
tauritraveler13 September 2017
Warning: Spoilers
Most of the reviewers missed the point. This is a movie about young Russians gaining a vivid appreciation of their history and their grandparents that fought for their nation's sovereignty.
While the main character has an academic interest in the Great Patriotic War (WWII), the war and those that fought are only as valuable to them as the money their artifacts will earn. The elderly woman appears out of nowhere, representing Mother Russia, gives them milk, and leads them to the lake that sends them back in time. Mother Russia herself teaches them to appreciate the sacrifices of those that have gone before.
Unity and Nationalism are strong themes as the 4 say more than once that they have to return to the lake together and bring Sokolov's cigarette case (the past) with them in order to move forward into the future. True to non-American movies, some good people have to die. I was just surprised it wasn't one of the 4 young men.
I liked it and would recommend it to others.
Background: I have watched many foreign movies and speak Spanish, English and Russian. I have been to other countries and come to understand that unless you become familiar with the histories and cultures of other nations, you will see their history incorrectly through your own cultural eyes.
While the main character has an academic interest in the Great Patriotic War (WWII), the war and those that fought are only as valuable to them as the money their artifacts will earn. The elderly woman appears out of nowhere, representing Mother Russia, gives them milk, and leads them to the lake that sends them back in time. Mother Russia herself teaches them to appreciate the sacrifices of those that have gone before.
Unity and Nationalism are strong themes as the 4 say more than once that they have to return to the lake together and bring Sokolov's cigarette case (the past) with them in order to move forward into the future. True to non-American movies, some good people have to die. I was just surprised it wasn't one of the 4 young men.
I liked it and would recommend it to others.
Background: I have watched many foreign movies and speak Spanish, English and Russian. I have been to other countries and come to understand that unless you become familiar with the histories and cultures of other nations, you will see their history incorrectly through your own cultural eyes.
Sheer brilliance, such an endearing film with a heartfelt message.
derat100017 November 2011
Warning: Spoilers
I was a little skeptical about this film and believed it could have been something already told. I mean, future people go back and learn about themselves - its been done before (I am looking at you Marty McFly).
What I found made me look at my own environment with different eyes. I was mislead by another reviewers comments about imagining present day men in black and though it to be about 'our present day occupied by an enemy'.
But the story strikes to the values that many seem to hold in a different regard. Today we have t-shirts, mugs and screen-savers paying homage to tyrants, maniacs and killers of years ago and the swastika is tattooed on quite a few arms. I can only imagine how our forefathers, having participated in major conflicts with some of these people would perceive our society which they fought and many died for.
The hero's of the story collect war trinkets for a quick sale at the local pawn shop, they play PC games depicting war scenes and yet it is only after their journey that they truly appreciate the horror of war, the sentiment behind the trinkets and the real human effort that goes into earning the war medals they retrieve from the ground.
That is not to say the film tries to make the present day ashamed of our activities, but engender a deeper appreciation for the gallant efforts of those before us for the love of country and friend.
It should be shown in many schools, I do fear one day the US will find this film and try to make an 'English version', of which I am sure they will not do it justice.
What I found made me look at my own environment with different eyes. I was mislead by another reviewers comments about imagining present day men in black and though it to be about 'our present day occupied by an enemy'.
But the story strikes to the values that many seem to hold in a different regard. Today we have t-shirts, mugs and screen-savers paying homage to tyrants, maniacs and killers of years ago and the swastika is tattooed on quite a few arms. I can only imagine how our forefathers, having participated in major conflicts with some of these people would perceive our society which they fought and many died for.
The hero's of the story collect war trinkets for a quick sale at the local pawn shop, they play PC games depicting war scenes and yet it is only after their journey that they truly appreciate the horror of war, the sentiment behind the trinkets and the real human effort that goes into earning the war medals they retrieve from the ground.
That is not to say the film tries to make the present day ashamed of our activities, but engender a deeper appreciation for the gallant efforts of those before us for the love of country and friend.
It should be shown in many schools, I do fear one day the US will find this film and try to make an 'English version', of which I am sure they will not do it justice.
Great war?
hte-trasme31 August 2014
Warning: Spoilers
This production started with a good concept: a group of young contemporary men who dig up World War II memorabilia for its cash and souvenir value -- one of whom is a skinhead with a swastika tattoo - - are magically transported back in time to the war itself.
While the realization looks very good and I don't have any problems with the script itself, its a long time between sections of dialogue, and it ends up seeming as if the characters and situations have never been fully developed -- which is a shame given such a potentially interesting situation. The period battles are very impressively recreated, but I couldn't help getting the feeling that the producers were so caught up with this aspect of the productions that some of the things that make a really satisfying movie were left out.
The love story that there is seems sketched -- the girl resists and then is suddenly completely in love with the hero. In the end, the protagonists feel the terror of battle over glorious-sounding music and return home humbled. Even this feels like it happened so quickly after they were so recently just trying to get themselves out of there, and it seems like sentimentalization of the "Great Patriotic War" as it is known in Russia.
In a film that is almost two hours long there is really no need for events to seem as rushed as they do, due to set pieces being given precedence at the expense of characters and scenes. Though it's certainly not a complete failure, given the premise it seems like a missed opportunity.
While the realization looks very good and I don't have any problems with the script itself, its a long time between sections of dialogue, and it ends up seeming as if the characters and situations have never been fully developed -- which is a shame given such a potentially interesting situation. The period battles are very impressively recreated, but I couldn't help getting the feeling that the producers were so caught up with this aspect of the productions that some of the things that make a really satisfying movie were left out.
The love story that there is seems sketched -- the girl resists and then is suddenly completely in love with the hero. In the end, the protagonists feel the terror of battle over glorious-sounding music and return home humbled. Even this feels like it happened so quickly after they were so recently just trying to get themselves out of there, and it seems like sentimentalization of the "Great Patriotic War" as it is known in Russia.
In a film that is almost two hours long there is really no need for events to seem as rushed as they do, due to set pieces being given precedence at the expense of characters and scenes. Though it's certainly not a complete failure, given the premise it seems like a missed opportunity.
The Meaning of Love, War and Country
jvaldeztoo2 August 2013
First off, I would most likely categorize this movie as more of a fantasy than a work of science fiction, and rightly so, because of its vehicle for time travel and setting. I watched this movie in the original Russian without sub-titles. I do not speak Russian, and I cannot say I am familiar with the country or its history. When I started to view it, I found the directing and cinematography to be interesting, so I continued, expecting to shut it off and go to bed. Instead, I was captivated by the story, and could tell from the acting and foreshadowing what the story was about, without understanding the language. In addition, I fully understood the concepts and experiences portrayed at the point of climax and the message the film intended. I enjoyed this film because of its elements, the love story intertwined with the wake up call to the younger generation known for forgetting the past, confounded with unexpected twists that led them on an adventure of inner growth and a closer examination of the meaning of life, nationality and sacrifice. I felt a greater interest in the Russian people after viewing this movie, and it left that kind of lump in my throat, wanting more, sad for their loss, and glad for what was gained. I did not expect such a melancholy feeling but I also felt after watching the movie that I needed it. I think this movie is a brilliant example of how a newer generation, regardless of culture, can romanticize the past even to the point of translating a gross, evil invader into something cool or popular without even realizing what it means. This is a great movie for young adults--thoughtful, yet entertaining, sending its message directly to your heart.
Excellent point of view
kanaifu10 May 2013
Warning: Spoilers
I just watched this film yesterday at the mini festival on the occasion of 9th of May (Victory Day).
There were only 4 reviews prior to this one for this movie.
Only one review was displayed by default, where reviewer (presumably from another background, not a communist one) slashes the movie as non- worthy. This is absolutely not true.
I would argue that if one is to truly understand this movie, he has to either be born and develop in a communist/post-communist regime (such as myself - SFRJ) or be an avid movie fan or be a professional movie critic.
This movie at my age (39) and with my family (wife + 2 kids) has profoundly confirmed the ominous situation with Neo-Nazism in Europe and grave future which (possibly) awaits us all.
****** spoiler alert ****** Aforementioned reviewer has agitated me, because this movie is not about time travel logic or anything about that. It is but a mechanism to show us deeper meaning.
There were only 4 reviews prior to this one for this movie.
Only one review was displayed by default, where reviewer (presumably from another background, not a communist one) slashes the movie as non- worthy. This is absolutely not true.
I would argue that if one is to truly understand this movie, he has to either be born and develop in a communist/post-communist regime (such as myself - SFRJ) or be an avid movie fan or be a professional movie critic.
This movie at my age (39) and with my family (wife + 2 kids) has profoundly confirmed the ominous situation with Neo-Nazism in Europe and grave future which (possibly) awaits us all.
****** spoiler alert ****** Aforementioned reviewer has agitated me, because this movie is not about time travel logic or anything about that. It is but a mechanism to show us deeper meaning.
Hip-Hop Guys Go To World War II
jeeap12 June 2018
Really Great Film!! Must See!!
tlc_hatch7 April 2018
Warning: Spoilers
For me, a Navy brat and AF wife, I found this to be a powerful, moving, emotional film that literally sucks you in. It vividly portrays how much we owe everything we are and everything we have to those brave souls who fought and died in battles just like this, to maintain the freedom we now enjoy and take for granted. I can honestly say this had me from the synopsis! What a clever premise! My hat is off to the creator and writer. It is the perfect moral lesson for those desecrating the graves of fallen soldiers. To experience all the raw emotions that go with war and see in such gut-wrenching detail who these skeletons actually were during their days on earth, alive and breathing was such a revelation. They went from dusty skulls and bones lying in dirt to flesh and blood human beings with feelings, emotions, thoughts and ideas. The choice was theirs and they sacrificed themselves valiantly. The nurse, so beautiful, dedicated and daring, risking everything to crawl in the middle of the battlefield to check the fallen, to protect those she could save. Their leadership, trying to maintain an effective team of soldiers, discipline fairly, and encourage them on. And finally the soldiers themselves, with all their human frailties, the funny, the sweet, the sad, the scared & downright terrified, the loyal, the triumphant and all of them flawed but incredibly heroic. It made it personal. It broke my heart to watch the blindage scene. My favorite part was when Vladimir's character (I think they called him Skull?) tries to scrape off his swastika tattoo. You can see they are visibly shaken and will never be the same.
Great period piece, authentic right down to the Mosin-Nagants. Loved the music, very good battle scenes, (I freaked watching the tanks run over their trench!). I was on the edge of my seat which is rare for me! I highly recommend this movie. Not just because its message is so aptly delivered but it is truly entertaining. It was called "Back In Time" when I watched it today on Amazon Prime.
Sub titled throughout
mlhare25 July 2020
Time Travel Lessons For Russian Millennials
scott-8153613 August 2018
Warning: Spoilers
Four Millennial buddies make money scavenging battlefields for medals and other collectibles. They start out superficial and materialistic. They end up maturing a decade or so in the course of a few days spent in the middle of the Patriotic War in 1942.
Only flaw in this fine film, IMHO, is that the director does not show the group giving the cigarette case to the old woman whom they wronged at the start of the adventure.
This is mainly an intense war film with some scifi trappings. The four friends rapidly learn that loyalty, patriotism and courage count for more than the latest game or nihilistic hanging out. Very good acting all around though the individual roles are from Central Casting: the ultranationalist, the nerd, the puer aeternus, the potential-to-be-a-leader, the brave female.
SPOILER FOLLOWS The action proper begins when the group is approached by an old woman who asks them to find out what happened to her son who was MIA in 1942. The group laughs at her and shines her on-why, oh why, don't we teach our kids to never ever wrong and old woman whom they meet in the wild? Yep, she sends them back to 1942 on the eve of an offensive. Some temporal paradox here but the director crafts such a fine film that these are easily forgotten.
Only flaw in this fine film, IMHO, is that the director does not show the group giving the cigarette case to the old woman whom they wronged at the start of the adventure.
This is mainly an intense war film with some scifi trappings. The four friends rapidly learn that loyalty, patriotism and courage count for more than the latest game or nihilistic hanging out. Very good acting all around though the individual roles are from Central Casting: the ultranationalist, the nerd, the puer aeternus, the potential-to-be-a-leader, the brave female.
SPOILER FOLLOWS The action proper begins when the group is approached by an old woman who asks them to find out what happened to her son who was MIA in 1942. The group laughs at her and shines her on-why, oh why, don't we teach our kids to never ever wrong and old woman whom they meet in the wild? Yep, she sends them back to 1942 on the eve of an offensive. Some temporal paradox here but the director crafts such a fine film that these are easily forgotten.
A complete waste of time
drystyx30 September 2012
Warning: Spoilers
What is worse than a poor movie? What makes a poor movie? A poor movie with this much time, effort, money, materials, and effects completely spent for no purpose.
This time travel movie is wasted efforts with predictable, dull plots, and a multitude of cliché characters so one dimensional that we could care less about them.
This movie should have been good. Most writers and directors have had concepts about entering a "portal", usually a cave, which leads to the past or future. Here, the fad idea is that water is the "portal", which adds to the clichés of the movie.
Four young, self righteous, arrogant men travel back to World War II. They are impossible to care about, and you'll find yourself just glancing up and listening to the predictable lines.
They meet a gorgeous girl. Of course, like all modern gay movies, the gorgeous girl has to die. We know this. Yawn. As a matter of fact, we know everything that will happen an hour before it does.
Director Molyukov can be forgiven for making a poor, predictable movie, but not for the waste. There is an obviously incredible amount of money spent on making war footage and explosions. All for the arrogance of spoiled rich brats. It's unfortunate that the idle rich waste their time making this garbage, while real artists languish without funds.
This movie is full of explosions and effects, to no end. It's a "vanity movie" for the people who made it, and just depressing garbage to young men who watch it. It's not "art". It's not "educational". It's not "entertaining".
This time travel movie is wasted efforts with predictable, dull plots, and a multitude of cliché characters so one dimensional that we could care less about them.
This movie should have been good. Most writers and directors have had concepts about entering a "portal", usually a cave, which leads to the past or future. Here, the fad idea is that water is the "portal", which adds to the clichés of the movie.
Four young, self righteous, arrogant men travel back to World War II. They are impossible to care about, and you'll find yourself just glancing up and listening to the predictable lines.
They meet a gorgeous girl. Of course, like all modern gay movies, the gorgeous girl has to die. We know this. Yawn. As a matter of fact, we know everything that will happen an hour before it does.
Director Molyukov can be forgiven for making a poor, predictable movie, but not for the waste. There is an obviously incredible amount of money spent on making war footage and explosions. All for the arrogance of spoiled rich brats. It's unfortunate that the idle rich waste their time making this garbage, while real artists languish without funds.
This movie is full of explosions and effects, to no end. It's a "vanity movie" for the people who made it, and just depressing garbage to young men who watch it. It's not "art". It's not "educational". It's not "entertaining".
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