A sweeping historical epic and moving love story reminiscent of David Lean's epic Dr Zhivago, Admiral is a big budget film set against the turbulent history of Russia between 1914 and 1920. The central character is Admiral Aleksandr Vasilevich Kolchak (Konstantin Khabenskiy), a genuine Russian hero – Arctic explorer, hero of the Baltic campaign in World War I – who became leader of White Russia after the revolution and was executed as a traitor by the Bolsheviks in 1920. Kolchak also embarks on an affair with Anna Timireva (Elizaveta Boyarskaya), the wife of his best friend and fellow officer. This marvellous film from director Andrei Kravchuk (The Italian, etc) explores the destruction of the opulent way of life of Imperial Russia as well as the brutal horrors of war. A stirring story of love, honour, patriotism and heroism, Admiral has been beautifully shot in widescreen and its visuals are often breath taking.
21 Reviews
Not a love story.
jason-21021 June 2010
Warning: Spoilers
The film was interesting and watchable, but lacked focus regarding the central characters and the love story, which a film like this seems to require.
If one compares it to the similar film Dr Zhivago, David Lean was able to articulate the political events in a convincing and intelligent manner, and at the same time provide us with a moving love story as the central focus of the movie. Cameron's 1997 Titanic succeeded in a similar way.
But the Admiral lacks the narrative structure of Zhivago and Titanic, and seems to jump around haphazzardly between history, patriotism, heroism and love, never giving us a chance to see how the love developed. We are simply not brought close enough to the real lives of the characters, nor are we really presented with believable characters who we can relate to. Perhaps this has to do with the fact that is is based on a true story and they didn't want to invent too much, like Cameron did in Titanic. But then why the stereotyped heroics? In the first battle-scene Admiral Kolchak is a fearless, brazen Russian, completely nonchalant as his ship was bombarded with shells and the bodies of his own crew members were reduced to bloody pulps. He merely thrusts his chin out, and calmly fires the ships small powder gun at the bridge of the attacking vessel, disabling it. This and further heroics is entertaining heroic stuff, but not very plausible or realistic.
The film picks up when the revolution begins, and from then on holds us with suspense and excitement. The historical murders by the Bolshiviks are brought home with grisly detail. Computer graphic effects are used subtly in this film, but to great effect.
Konstantin Khabenskiy, who plays Kolchak, enthralls us, and the final scenes on the Trans-Siberian train to Irkutsk, and his eventual betrayal, are memorable.
Definitely a film worth watching, but it shouldn't be called a love story because the drama is focused on the tragic and brutal events perpetrated by the Bolsheviks, and long, suffering march by kolchak's army. In the end it's the story of a good man, who fought hard and bravely for his country, only to be murdered by his own countryman. Good to see that Russia can make films like this now, and that it is beginning to show a different perspective on the events of the revolution.
If one compares it to the similar film Dr Zhivago, David Lean was able to articulate the political events in a convincing and intelligent manner, and at the same time provide us with a moving love story as the central focus of the movie. Cameron's 1997 Titanic succeeded in a similar way.
But the Admiral lacks the narrative structure of Zhivago and Titanic, and seems to jump around haphazzardly between history, patriotism, heroism and love, never giving us a chance to see how the love developed. We are simply not brought close enough to the real lives of the characters, nor are we really presented with believable characters who we can relate to. Perhaps this has to do with the fact that is is based on a true story and they didn't want to invent too much, like Cameron did in Titanic. But then why the stereotyped heroics? In the first battle-scene Admiral Kolchak is a fearless, brazen Russian, completely nonchalant as his ship was bombarded with shells and the bodies of his own crew members were reduced to bloody pulps. He merely thrusts his chin out, and calmly fires the ships small powder gun at the bridge of the attacking vessel, disabling it. This and further heroics is entertaining heroic stuff, but not very plausible or realistic.
The film picks up when the revolution begins, and from then on holds us with suspense and excitement. The historical murders by the Bolshiviks are brought home with grisly detail. Computer graphic effects are used subtly in this film, but to great effect.
Konstantin Khabenskiy, who plays Kolchak, enthralls us, and the final scenes on the Trans-Siberian train to Irkutsk, and his eventual betrayal, are memorable.
Definitely a film worth watching, but it shouldn't be called a love story because the drama is focused on the tragic and brutal events perpetrated by the Bolsheviks, and long, suffering march by kolchak's army. In the end it's the story of a good man, who fought hard and bravely for his country, only to be murdered by his own countryman. Good to see that Russia can make films like this now, and that it is beginning to show a different perspective on the events of the revolution.
A Well Served Story of Love and War
tyranny_of_souls31 October 2008
Warning: Spoilers
Perhaps I was not the only moviegoer who was reluctant to go and see this film. For too long time Russians have been fed with another history of Great October Revolution, and now the trend is to try and show it in complete reverse. But this appears to be absolutely irrelevant to anyone who wasn't born in the USSR. And then, the main storyline is love, and civil war appears to be just a background, but an essential background as the title character Kolchak is the head of the White Guard Army faithfully fighting for ideas and beliefs of falling Russian Empire. The story is very well served, focusing not on the fall of Empire and what followed that fall, but on the personality of Kolchak himself. He is a human with his own vices and weaknesses, a man who had a lot of affairs but only one true love. The opening sea battle gives a taste of unwanted pathos to the story. Being trapped by enemies on severely damaged ship with half of the crew either dead or invalid, then-captain Kolchak single-handedly manages to cause irreparable damage to German "Karl Friedrich" ship and win the battle, which looks a bit surreal. What follows is Kolchak's rise and Russian Empire's fall intertwined with a strong feeling between him and his friend's wife, Anna. The story is inaccurate in terms of historical authenticity, but nevertheless impressive and epic. The title character of Kolchak is brilliantly portrayed by Konstantin Knabensky, who finally gained the maturity needed and a slight tinge of pathos which never goes away throughout the entire movie. The role of Kolchak's ally and friend, general Kappel, is also well portrayed by Sergei Bezrukov who seems to overact in most of his roles, but this time hits the nail right in. Another notable character is Sonya, Kolchak's wife played by Anna Kovalchuk. This stoic woman endured her husband's numerous adulteries with infinite grace and patience, finally losing him to the femme fatal Anna Timireva but never stopping to love him. The character of Anna herself was meant to be the highlight of the movie, an image of a wealthy married woman who gives up everything to follow her true love through war and misery, but instead appeared to be a flat, insignificant, and very badly played by Elizaveta Boyarskaya role. She is simply not credible and far from portraying this complex character, pushing only with her natural beauty instead. She doesn't care whether she loves Kolchak, doesn't care if he is dead or alive - she just moves and talks respectively to the storyline. That's why the love story itself fails to be delivered on screen and leave the audience with any message. Having said that, it doesn't mean that the movie is bad at all, it just lacks this emotional grip on the audience in terms of love story, but it delivers the story of one man who attempted to change the history, and the history itself behind that man.
Interesting and somewhat entertaining, but too solemn biopic
Andy-29623 February 2013
An interesting, if flawed, biopic about Alexander Kolchak, Russian admiral during World War I, and after the Russian revolution, leader of the Russian whites during the civil war. I know the Soviet Union ended more than 20 years ago, but I was still surprised to see such a reverent movie about one of the leaders of the Russian whites. For example, the scene where Kolchak takes command of his army with the blessing of the Russian Orthodox Church is told with soaring musing, and without any hint of irony. Story of his romance with the wife of one of his fellow officers adds very little (in fact, probably detracts) from the film. In summary, a generally well made film and with a relatively generous budget, but a bit too reverent and solemn toward its subject.
There is something beautiful in the way, the ocean refuses to stop kissing the shoreline, no matter how many times it is sent away in ruthless tide of the war.
ironhorse_iv3 March 2016
Warning: Spoilers
After being sent out to the sea, two times before, in the Russo-Japanese War and the First World War. All that Vice Admiral, Alexander Kolchak (Konstantin Khabenskiy) wants to do, is find who is his true-love is: his wife, Sofia Kolchak (Anna Kovalchuk) & fame poet, Anna Timiryova (Elizaveta Boyarskaya) back home. However, the call of war, is calling his name, once more, as he has to make, another choice, choose to lead of the anti-communist White Movement against the Bolsheviks during the Russian Civil War, for the love of his country or abandoned his noble cause, for the chance for a normal life with his love ones. Without spoiling the movie, too much, the film remind me, so much of 1965's Doctor Zhivago in story-structure, having flashbacks tell most of the story. However, unlike Doctor Zhivago, this movie's lacks the epic scope in the cinematography department. As much as I love war scenes in this war film, there is this eerily unrealistic that come with some of the sequences. A good example of this, come with the navy battles, during the opening. Not only are most of those scenes, historic inaccuracy, like the sinking of SMS Friedrich Carl in November 1915, when it sunk for real, two years earlier; but the computer-animation ships don't look like, they're really there. It looks a bit fake-looking. It was bit, over the top to see that ship blows apart and sinks within seconds with a clear big loss of lives by Russian mines. When, actually, the Friedrich Carl was stayed afloat for several hours, enough for the light cruiser SMS Augsburg to arrive to the scene and rescue most of the crew, and only 8 crew members were lost. Nevertheless, that fault; the war scenes in the ground scenes were still intense and well-shot. I like how they didn't sugarcoat, the violence. It's bloody, gory, and very gruesome. I just wish, the CGI effect were done, a little better. Directed by Andrey Kravchuk, the romantic sequences are kinda below standards, too as the movie rarely gives anytime, for the relationship between Kolchak and Timiryova to deliver. The two, barely show any chemistry for each other. Another thing, the film fails to tell, is a little background, like how Kolchak honestly became an Admiral. I'm not saying the film has to show the events of his life during the Russo-Japanese War, but a small mention would do. After all, Kolchak's life during that war, was very interesting and intense. Another thing, the movie doesn't show, is how Kolchak became the leader of the White Movement after his meeting in Petrograd. You would think the movie would show, his relationship with France, the United States, and the United Kingdom, more and how he almost got sent to Mesopotamia. That, or show his time, exile overseas in Japan. Even, his polar explorer career wasn't mention or expose much. It would make a lot more sense, if the movie mention that the reason, why he choose to come back to Siberia to fight back against the reds, is because he knew that area, best. However, the film doesn't even do that. Nor does it expose, the many of deaths by citizens, cause both from the Reds and the Whites, during this time. Yes, the whites did attack towns as well. While, there is a lot of debate if Kolchak in true-life was a natural patriotic hero for liberty, or an autocratic man seeking power. It's just nice to see that, after decades of being vilified by the Soviet government, Kolchak is now just now, seem as a controversial historic figure in post-Soviet Russia. He's not good nor bad. I just wouldn't say, Konstantin Khabenskiy is good as a romantic lead, but as a commander, he has the voice to pull it off. He comes off, kinda stern, but also somewhat heart-warming at parts. Elizaveta Boyarskaya as Anna Timiryova is a beautiful, however, her character lacks depth, so her acting doesn't shine, besides loving the Kolchak character in most of her key scenes. I would love to see, more of her acting, in other ways, like showing Anna's career as poet and a nurse. The movie doesn't even show, any of her poems at all. Nor does the movie talk or show Anna Timiryova's young son, the fame avant garde artist Vladimir Timirev, who was around, Kolchak are the time. Despite that, the movie is pretty good. I like how the title uses the old, Russian orthography that was abandoned after the October Socialist Revolution of 1917. That was pretty cool. The movie is indeed in Russian, but DVD does have English subtitles. Overall: Despite some faults, Admiral is still a movie worth, seeing. It's kinda rare to see, a Russian movie about the White Movement. So check it out!
Modern Russian historic movie
Tatiana_G30 October 2008
When I was about to watch this film I did not bother to read the critical articles in the papers or in the Internet. Initially I looked upon the film as just an entertainment, but the impression turned to be much deeper. What puzzles me is the reaction towards the film in the Russian media. After I left the cinema I was most convinced that "Admiral" is worth almost unanimous public acclaim for this film is an attempt to investigate probably the most complicated and still painful period in the history of Russia. And show this period through the destiny of Admiral Kolchak. According to the Khabensky’s words he was to show not a dictator, but a man in love who has also duties before his country but cannot deny his feelings. That is why "Admiral" though being a historic movie is actually neither about war, nor politics. It is a great and beautiful love story. After "Admiral" I was curious to learn more about the Civil War and the figure of Kolchak. Of course it is studied at school, but in fact what is written in the school textbooks is a total mess of facts and dates. But now the reading is more interesting as I can imagine this distant historic statesmen and thus I get a clearer picture of the Civil War in Siberia. Admiral Kolchak’s life was full of everything one can wish to himself: he discovered new lands in the Arctic Ocean and named them, he knew what it is like to win great battles, he was loved by faithful and brave women, he led enormous armies and gave aspiration to so many people. He was the symbol of honorable struggle. I would say that even dry historic books about Kolchak are as exciting as novels. So his screened biography is also breathtaking. "Admiral" is probably the best modern Russian film.
For love is strong as death...
adelinaforever15 October 2008
But if I am still alive
Counter to destiny
That's only as your love
And memory of you
Ana Timireva
"Your smile that I will never forget, your voice, your hands are the symbol of the highest award for me which can give me life for performance of the greatest aim, military idea, debt and the obligations sent by the severe and unshakable nature of war " These words full of love, emotions and fear to lose his beloved woman were written by Admiral Kolchak to Anna Timireva. She was a married woman with a son, he had wife and son too. Anna was younger than Admiral in 19 years but love does not have borders and they both understood it. He wasn't the handsomest of men and besides he was a soldier and patriot dedicated to the army and to the country. But she was the real princess: young, clever and gorgeous. They seemed to be just ordinary people but their amazing love story and tragic destiny made them legends.
"Admiral" is that type of movies that you watch on one breath and when it ends you don't need to speak with your friends and share your thoughts about the film. It is something extraordinary that you keep deep inside your heart. You are nearly crying as if it was your own life and your sufferings. This is the power of that movie. First of all, you will be impressed with the actors' transformation. Konstantyn Habensky as Admiral Kolchak is exactly the man from that epoch. Fearless, brave and strong person with so many contradictions that finally led him to his death. Habensky has previously worked with Elizaveta Boyarskaya in "Irony of Fate 2" but in this picture they are more natural and real as a duet.
Historical dramas are for sure one of the most hardest genre. The duty of actors is to make audience believe that you are that Man or that Woman from specific century and era. In "Admiral" Elizaaveta Boyarskaya did a fantastic job. She did a hundred times better than she did in "Irony of Fate" Maybe it's because "Irony" was just a sequel of the famous Soviet film. But Anna in "Admiral" is definitely her role that she played with fidelity and grace.
I also want to say few words about the music. The original score is fantastic. And the title song "Anna" which was a poem written by Anna Timireva and dedicated to Kolchak sounds so touching. Just listen to it and you will understand how strong this woman were. Singer Victoria Dayneko performed it perfectly and her voice is amazing.
Admiral was killed in February 7, 1920. Anna Timireva spent most of her life in prisons and camps. She died in 1975. As she said she had been with Admiral only for two years. But she never stopped loving him even after his death.
Counter to destiny
That's only as your love
And memory of you
Ana Timireva
"Your smile that I will never forget, your voice, your hands are the symbol of the highest award for me which can give me life for performance of the greatest aim, military idea, debt and the obligations sent by the severe and unshakable nature of war " These words full of love, emotions and fear to lose his beloved woman were written by Admiral Kolchak to Anna Timireva. She was a married woman with a son, he had wife and son too. Anna was younger than Admiral in 19 years but love does not have borders and they both understood it. He wasn't the handsomest of men and besides he was a soldier and patriot dedicated to the army and to the country. But she was the real princess: young, clever and gorgeous. They seemed to be just ordinary people but their amazing love story and tragic destiny made them legends.
"Admiral" is that type of movies that you watch on one breath and when it ends you don't need to speak with your friends and share your thoughts about the film. It is something extraordinary that you keep deep inside your heart. You are nearly crying as if it was your own life and your sufferings. This is the power of that movie. First of all, you will be impressed with the actors' transformation. Konstantyn Habensky as Admiral Kolchak is exactly the man from that epoch. Fearless, brave and strong person with so many contradictions that finally led him to his death. Habensky has previously worked with Elizaveta Boyarskaya in "Irony of Fate 2" but in this picture they are more natural and real as a duet.
Historical dramas are for sure one of the most hardest genre. The duty of actors is to make audience believe that you are that Man or that Woman from specific century and era. In "Admiral" Elizaaveta Boyarskaya did a fantastic job. She did a hundred times better than she did in "Irony of Fate" Maybe it's because "Irony" was just a sequel of the famous Soviet film. But Anna in "Admiral" is definitely her role that she played with fidelity and grace.
I also want to say few words about the music. The original score is fantastic. And the title song "Anna" which was a poem written by Anna Timireva and dedicated to Kolchak sounds so touching. Just listen to it and you will understand how strong this woman were. Singer Victoria Dayneko performed it perfectly and her voice is amazing.
Admiral was killed in February 7, 1920. Anna Timireva spent most of her life in prisons and camps. She died in 1975. As she said she had been with Admiral only for two years. But she never stopped loving him even after his death.
Over-dramatic
andrejvasiljevic13 February 2011
Warning: Spoilers
Ever since the Soviet Union collapsed, Russia has endured a struggle for a redefinition of it's own identity. The fight between communist values and the ones which existed before 1917 is fierce, and "Admiral" is yet another byproduct of such struggle. What grew to be extremely popular in the last decade or so is the glorification of the past pre-communist times, when all was neat and dandy. Beautiful aristocrats enjoyed life in all it's glory, glances met at balls on courts, compliments were exchanged in even a simplest conversation, heroism was the ultimate distinction for a gentleman (which everyone seemed to be) and a deep devotion to religion. Then, the filthy Bolseviks came and took all that away... was it really like this? Well if you watch "Admiral" and have some sympathy towards the royal Russia, you'd pull that shallow conclusion.
A heroic admiral of Royal Russian Navy, with a deep sense for justice, religion and fairness falls into a twist of revolution and love with a breathtaking young woman, who happens to be married to one of his colleagues. They could have it all, yet faith had other plans. Eventually the most noble Mr Admiral gets shot by commie bad guys while the fair lady lives to tell the story. Almost a new version of Titanic... hahaha.
I'm not Russian but you don't need to be one in order to see the one sided shallowness of the story. I'm pretty sure that some people on high positions and with deep pockets had quite a comfy life before the revolution, however, there wouldn't have been one if everyone else enjoyed such lushness. We are served with a black-white pattern of and enlightened Tsarist Russia and rotten revolutionaries who can't read and kill women. The truth is somewhere in the middle as ever, and if you look for that nice balance of history and film, you won't find it in Admiral.
This beyond any doubt was a costly project. The frame is pretty good, scenery is on the level, costumes are authentic, locations are proper, yet all that just isn't enough to cover the partial and shallow script. The 3 points go to the technical outcome. It's nice to look and but that's it really.
A heroic admiral of Royal Russian Navy, with a deep sense for justice, religion and fairness falls into a twist of revolution and love with a breathtaking young woman, who happens to be married to one of his colleagues. They could have it all, yet faith had other plans. Eventually the most noble Mr Admiral gets shot by commie bad guys while the fair lady lives to tell the story. Almost a new version of Titanic... hahaha.
I'm not Russian but you don't need to be one in order to see the one sided shallowness of the story. I'm pretty sure that some people on high positions and with deep pockets had quite a comfy life before the revolution, however, there wouldn't have been one if everyone else enjoyed such lushness. We are served with a black-white pattern of and enlightened Tsarist Russia and rotten revolutionaries who can't read and kill women. The truth is somewhere in the middle as ever, and if you look for that nice balance of history and film, you won't find it in Admiral.
This beyond any doubt was a costly project. The frame is pretty good, scenery is on the level, costumes are authentic, locations are proper, yet all that just isn't enough to cover the partial and shallow script. The 3 points go to the technical outcome. It's nice to look and but that's it really.
Terrific movie
tatianadick5 November 2010
It is a very extraordinary and powerful film. I was crying several times during the movie like it was me who was suffering. I was deeply touched inside of my heart after I watched this movie. I highly recommend this movie to everyone!!! Too bad there are not many movies like this one. Our kids are growing watching junkie movies and the we are wondering what is going on with younger generation... This movie will make you think about your duty, priorities, life, faith, and too many other important things we never think about in our lives on the daily basis. This movie is about sacrifice for your country (to the highest possible level), military honor (to the very last blood drop), patriotism, intellect, intelligence, love, faith
It is simply an amazing movie that makes you think, tear, laugh...
the Mediocre film
dd1-720 October 2008
Theme of white movement one of the most interesting and grasping in the history of Russia the XX-th centuries. It is history of the people who have chosen the way, distinct from others. And victims for the ideals. Someone it is valorous, someone it is disgraceful. Kolchak was the leader of white movement and it was actually possible to create a fine film. But, again unfortunately it has not turned out … Well when it will turn out?! Actually we will not stop on historical errors of a film, we will notice that they were, however as well as in many other films.
The main thing that is evident throughout all film is immense PATHOS, is direct to a nausea. The first fighting scene, with the German ship, in the beginning develops impression that we and do not resist to the opponent, at us a heap of the wounded and killed simple sailors. And Kolchak somehow easy goes and observes of it. Such sensation that Kolchak untouchable, also it is necessary to show in a considerable quantity a meat grinder from stupid and worthless Russian sailors. And then Kolchak will show a master class and will damage the enemy ship. Then a scene with passage through mines. There was an impression that if Kolchak has not prayed, we would not pass. And, Germans have forgotten, and in vain, and for it have rigidly paid off.
Now about a love story. To what genius has come to mind to invite this actress Liza Boyarskaya. I certainly understand that her daddy the fine actor, but it not so is often descended. Its game is simply awful. It is a pity that in Russia so cinema clans are strong. Well and so, Liza Boyarskaya such sensation that in first half of film plays the full silly woman. That, a silly smile with glass eyes does not understand even elementary things. In second half of film she repeats «I love you, Alexander Vasilevich» some times for a film, but, apparently, that to her all these recognitions are absolutely indifferent. To it whether it is boring, whether it is opposite, whether simply it would be desirable to smoke.
Khabensky also not so approaches. In general it looks like the shtabs-captain … It speaks about feelings more, but these words are incorporeal and empty. What to us try to show, what an admiral only and did, what prayed?! And still ran from red faster a hare in wood. Probably, he loved one woman of more Russia. And destiny in which he has started to trust has deprived of it, both Russia, and the beloved.
Bezrukov has not badly played. But what it has shown, brave, to nonsense of the general because of which it has ruined himself and Kolchak?! Who really was pleasant so it Kovalchuk. Has perfectly played it is a pity that to it has got so poorly screen time. Almost only its scenes with an admiral have caused in me though any emotions. Thanks.
Unpleasant feeling has left selection and other actors. Literally everyone not in the role. As result — any emotions from game.
As a result once again I will repeat that it is very a pity...
Thanks for attention.
The main thing that is evident throughout all film is immense PATHOS, is direct to a nausea. The first fighting scene, with the German ship, in the beginning develops impression that we and do not resist to the opponent, at us a heap of the wounded and killed simple sailors. And Kolchak somehow easy goes and observes of it. Such sensation that Kolchak untouchable, also it is necessary to show in a considerable quantity a meat grinder from stupid and worthless Russian sailors. And then Kolchak will show a master class and will damage the enemy ship. Then a scene with passage through mines. There was an impression that if Kolchak has not prayed, we would not pass. And, Germans have forgotten, and in vain, and for it have rigidly paid off.
Now about a love story. To what genius has come to mind to invite this actress Liza Boyarskaya. I certainly understand that her daddy the fine actor, but it not so is often descended. Its game is simply awful. It is a pity that in Russia so cinema clans are strong. Well and so, Liza Boyarskaya such sensation that in first half of film plays the full silly woman. That, a silly smile with glass eyes does not understand even elementary things. In second half of film she repeats «I love you, Alexander Vasilevich» some times for a film, but, apparently, that to her all these recognitions are absolutely indifferent. To it whether it is boring, whether it is opposite, whether simply it would be desirable to smoke.
Khabensky also not so approaches. In general it looks like the shtabs-captain … It speaks about feelings more, but these words are incorporeal and empty. What to us try to show, what an admiral only and did, what prayed?! And still ran from red faster a hare in wood. Probably, he loved one woman of more Russia. And destiny in which he has started to trust has deprived of it, both Russia, and the beloved.
Bezrukov has not badly played. But what it has shown, brave, to nonsense of the general because of which it has ruined himself and Kolchak?! Who really was pleasant so it Kovalchuk. Has perfectly played it is a pity that to it has got so poorly screen time. Almost only its scenes with an admiral have caused in me though any emotions. Thanks.
Unpleasant feeling has left selection and other actors. Literally everyone not in the role. As result — any emotions from game.
As a result once again I will repeat that it is very a pity...
Thanks for attention.
Finally a chance to see through the glass darkly
Tgrain12 June 2011
Soviet cinema provided us with a myriad films on the Russian revolution and Civil War. While many were artistically engaging, all of them had one mission - to portray the Soviet cause as just and right.
Admiral finally gives audiences an opportunity to see the other side of the story in a human way, without the heavy handed political approach of its Soviet counterparts. It gives you a taste of a Russia that was destroyed after the Bolsheviks sealed their grip on the country. A respectable budget and modern technology allows this film to portray a realism that even Soviet cinema at its prime couldn't match. Everything, from battle scenes to tea parties is very much alive. At the same time, cheap Hollywood-isms are avoided, so if you're looking for a steamy sex scene you'll be disappointed.
The 124 minute version of this film suffers from being a bit rushed, with the romantic story taking center stage which obscures other deep elements of the story. The expanded version is considerably more filling, especially those who enjoy the historical content and a more laid back pace that allows you to absorb.
Admiral finally gives audiences an opportunity to see the other side of the story in a human way, without the heavy handed political approach of its Soviet counterparts. It gives you a taste of a Russia that was destroyed after the Bolsheviks sealed their grip on the country. A respectable budget and modern technology allows this film to portray a realism that even Soviet cinema at its prime couldn't match. Everything, from battle scenes to tea parties is very much alive. At the same time, cheap Hollywood-isms are avoided, so if you're looking for a steamy sex scene you'll be disappointed.
The 124 minute version of this film suffers from being a bit rushed, with the romantic story taking center stage which obscures other deep elements of the story. The expanded version is considerably more filling, especially those who enjoy the historical content and a more laid back pace that allows you to absorb.
A tragic love story
AFilotti24 May 2009
The film focuses on the love story between Admiral Kolchak and Anna Timiryova, in the context of the tragic events of the Russian revolution and civil war. And rightly so, the main feature is the love story, while history is left to the background.
It also does not focus on the life of Anna Timiryova after Kolchak's death - she has been arrested six times and spent long years in the Gulag. But she always remembered the two tragic years when she had been able to be with her lover.
The lyrics of the theme song are one of Anna Timiryova's poems. Unfortunately a film cannot focus on poetry, but it should be remembered that the Timiryova's poems have been compared the the poetry of Boris Pasternak.
And Boyarskaya really shows that she understood the tragism of Timiryova's fate.
It also does not focus on the life of Anna Timiryova after Kolchak's death - she has been arrested six times and spent long years in the Gulag. But she always remembered the two tragic years when she had been able to be with her lover.
The lyrics of the theme song are one of Anna Timiryova's poems. Unfortunately a film cannot focus on poetry, but it should be remembered that the Timiryova's poems have been compared the the poetry of Boris Pasternak.
And Boyarskaya really shows that she understood the tragism of Timiryova's fate.
Beautiful. Too beautiful
Vincentiu8 October 2011
A hero. And his religion - Russia. A impressive movie, so great, so expansive, so subtle and delicate that any comment is a mistake. The admiral, as new Alexey Nevski and the nasty Bolsheviks, the traitor and the end of beautiful love story. But the real Kolchak is in dark. For be a masterpiece, the film must be for good taste of public. So, the history is only convention. The hero , the elegant lady, few details as bones of a huge story are enough. Therefore, it is difficult to criticize this production. Its strenghts are so numerous that any accusation is ridiculous. The Soviet enthusiasm for great fresco, the Russian way to see the life and the tragedy as atonement are key for images of a world end by an old definition.
Come Back Stalin - All Is Forgiven
robert-64224 October 2010
Oh dear! What a load of rubbish. What could have been an enjoyable historical film charting the fall of the Russian monarchy and the rise of communism ended up as a Latin American styled, melodramatic soap opera. It's a pity they didn't add a bit of comedy then it could have qualified as a romantic comedy drama. The cuts between the protagonist and his mistress were far too many - they halted the development of the story. One moment men are have their limbs blown off and the next shot is of her writing lyrical love letters. Had they cut the romance scenes down by 95% it would have been an excellent historical drama - they certainly had the budget for it.
And finally. The film was also ruined by the constant location pop ups. One moment they tell you they are in Omsk, three minutes later you are in Petrograd and then a minute after you are back in Omsk! I wouldn't mind but all the places looked the same so why bother? I'd like to have thought it was for the non Russian audience but it wasn't! Save your precious life and watch something more interesting.
And finally. The film was also ruined by the constant location pop ups. One moment they tell you they are in Omsk, three minutes later you are in Petrograd and then a minute after you are back in Omsk! I wouldn't mind but all the places looked the same so why bother? I'd like to have thought it was for the non Russian audience but it wasn't! Save your precious life and watch something more interesting.
Correct and opinion.
Daredevil-roso19 October 2008
Just a small correction, the filming of 'Admiral' took place before 'Irony of Fate 2'. So, Khabensky and Boyarskaya duet originally was born during production of 'Admiral'.
Liza is a young actress, but she increases her actor's skills and abilities from film to film. 'Irony...' required another significance of role. And I think, the aim was attained - new heroine became modern, interesting and attractive for up-to-date public.
A lot of excellent actors got only few seconds role in 'Admiral', but they used this time terrifically !
And for summing up, 'Admiral' is a great movie which should be felt deeply and only after that - scrutinized.
Liza is a young actress, but she increases her actor's skills and abilities from film to film. 'Irony...' required another significance of role. And I think, the aim was attained - new heroine became modern, interesting and attractive for up-to-date public.
A lot of excellent actors got only few seconds role in 'Admiral', but they used this time terrifically !
And for summing up, 'Admiral' is a great movie which should be felt deeply and only after that - scrutinized.
movies for the masses
juliahro18 July 2010
This movies seems to me approved by Putin: simple-minded, patriotic, a complete non-thinker. Not that we don't need non-thinkers from time to time, but this movie doesn't even give its actors a chance to act: the best attitude for the man is the heroic brave grin, and for the woman - the pretentious yet vulnerable smile of adoration or resignation.
I get that that time was a time of war and the appraisal of war; but I'm sure Russians are not as conventional and simple-minded as this (they have great writers to prove it - and some directors, too).
Although, I'm sure someone like Putin would prefer them this way. This dough is easier to mold.
I get that that time was a time of war and the appraisal of war; but I'm sure Russians are not as conventional and simple-minded as this (they have great writers to prove it - and some directors, too).
Although, I'm sure someone like Putin would prefer them this way. This dough is easier to mold.
Pure lie
slam1331 July 2013
Kolchak is just another scum. He made his own GULAG and put in concentration camps about 1000000 people. Не killed hundreds of thousands: only in Ekaterinburg region "whites" killed 25000 civils and POWs. One American (from Red cross) described the situation: "I swear to God, I am not exaggerating! ... In Siberia, the horror and death at every step on a scale that would have shocked the most callous heart... ". Now they are trying to make some sort of "hero" out of murderer, traitor and British agent. They are even trying to show, that he can fell in love with somebody and some morons even think, that it is real "stirring story of love, honour, patriotism and heroism". Pure lie!!!
From admiral to Revolutionary behind some real events
bcnkor28 January 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Based on real events, it tells us the story of an admiral and why he is motivated to change sides and be a revolutionary. With very good visual effects of a naval war and behind a great script they have achieved a great movie.
Excellent War movie and love Story. Leaves a lasting impression
Tailgunner194410 December 2016
This is one of the best movies I have watched in years. Not only is it a historical war movie based on actual events, it is also a very captivating love story. It is one of those movies that you keep thinking about long after it has ended. The performance by Konstantin Khabenskiy is exceptional and Oscar-worthy. Had this been an American movie I have no doubt it would have been a Best Picture contender at the Oscars.
Aside from the story and acting by all the actors, the music and sweeping cinematography is quite on point.
When it comes to battle scenes, the last big battle towards the end is one of those that leaves you scratching your head as to what was going through the heads of the Soldiers when their Commanders ordered them to carry out these massive charges straight into machine gun fire. Well-made movie that deserves watching again.
Now, because it is based on actual events, I am about to Wikipedia the heck out of the characters. It is just one of those movies where you connect with all the characters so much that you want to read and know more about the real-life people.
Aside from the story and acting by all the actors, the music and sweeping cinematography is quite on point.
When it comes to battle scenes, the last big battle towards the end is one of those that leaves you scratching your head as to what was going through the heads of the Soldiers when their Commanders ordered them to carry out these massive charges straight into machine gun fire. Well-made movie that deserves watching again.
Now, because it is based on actual events, I am about to Wikipedia the heck out of the characters. It is just one of those movies where you connect with all the characters so much that you want to read and know more about the real-life people.
norm
snrnr-la11 March 2015
Warning: Spoilers
Yes, it's worth seeing at the cinema. The film is based on real facts of the biography Kolchak naval commander, as well as the events of 1918-1920. What movie? On War. About love. That's why you need to watch it and in the cinema. To a head dive into the story. To two hours to forget about everything. To live, to think, to feel like the main characters. The game is excellent. The actors managed to convey the mood and emotions of each of the characters. The audience felt both fear and love, and regret, and stress. Something touched a nerve. Cried. Although, maybe it's me just such a sentimental, but you do not like it :) End bit predictable. Somewhere in the middle of the film had the feeling that at the end of Kolchak Shot. And so it happened. The last 3 minutes of the film dull stale from "Titanic," which is not particularly great. In general, I believe that a few years and our cinema will udelyvaet Hollywood with its consumer goods. Here. Decent picture.
at first sigh, perfect
Kirpianuscus3 October 2015
romanticism, good acting, wise script, history's respiration, great atmosphere. a film who seems be perfect for a large target. because it has coherence and rhythm and moral questions and Chekhov's universe drops. it is a blockbuster. and that fact could not be a real surprise. for a part of viewers, for who Kolchak is a hero not only for his political position, for the last sacrifice and for the status of lover, but for its impressive career as explorer, the film is only a sketch. for the fans of old films, the meeting with Nikolay Burliav, as the Tsar , is a real surprise. a film about war and love and feelings. about the change of society. and about values. that is all. but the manner used does the difference from many other films with same subject.
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