alexandrarybkahere Reviews

Immaculate (2024)

A Lackluster Horror Experience

[4/10 · 4 May 2024]

Directed by Michael Mohan and featuring Sydney Sweeney, Álvaro Morte, Simona Tabasco, and Benedetta Porcaroli, "Immaculate" dives into the world of horror.

Plot: A young American woman heads to an isolated Italian convent to become a nun, only to uncover terrifying secrets within its walls.

The film draws from Italian horror influences like Dario Argento's classics, though it falls short of their impact.

Performances: Sydney Sweeney impresses with her portrayal of the troubled lead, while Álvaro Morte adds depth to his character.

Atmosphere: Mohan crafts an eerie ambiance, but the story's rushed resolution and unresolved ideas weaken its impact.

Overall: "Immaculate" offers glimpses of promise but ultimately delivers a lackluster horror experience.

Midsommar (2019)

A Chilling Journey into Terror

[6/10 · 4 May 2024]

"Midsommar" isn't your typical horror flick. It's more like a rollercoaster ride through a nightmare. Picture this: a couple, Dani and Christian, go on a trip to Sweden with their friends. But what starts as a vacation quickly turns into a descent into madness.

The movie does a great job of setting the scene. You feel the tension building right from the start, as Dani and Christian's relationship starts to unravel. When they arrive in Sweden, things get even weirder. The sun is always shining, the people are smiling too much, and there's something just not right about the whole place.

As the story unfolds, you can't help but feel like something bad is going to happen. The atmosphere is tense, and you're on the edge of your seat waiting for the other shoe to drop. And when it does, it's like a punch to the gut.

The movie's visuals are stunning, with bright colors and beautiful landscapes that contrast sharply with the darkness of the story. But don't let the pretty scenery fool you - there's horror lurking around every corner.

While "Midsommar" may not be for everyone, it's definitely worth a watch if you're a fan of spine-tingling thrills and psychological twists. Just be prepared to be on edge the whole time, because once you're in, there's no turning back.

The Nest of the Turtledove (2016)

A Tender Portrait of Life's Crossroads

[6/10 · 6 June 2018]

From the very first scene, Gnizdo gorlytsi envelops you in its tender embrace, inviting you to embark on a journey of love, loss, and the complexities of choice. With each frame, the film's impeccable camera work and heartfelt performances draw you deeper into the world of its protagonist, Darina.

At its core, Gnizdo gorlytsi is a story of resilience and the enduring bond of family. Darina's journey from a humble Ukrainian village to the bustling streets of Italy and back again is a testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity. As she grapples with the consequences of her decisions, the film delicately explores the universal themes of identity, belonging, and the search for meaning in life's ever-changing landscape.

Accompanying Darina's emotional odyssey is the stirring musical score by Stefano Lentini, which imbues each scene with a sense of poignancy and depth. Through its non-linear narrative, the film skillfully unravels the layers of Darina's character, allowing us to empathize with her joys and sorrows, triumphs and regrets.

But what truly sets Gnizdo gorlytsi apart is its ability to resonate on a deeply human level. Director Taras Tkachenko crafts a narrative that speaks to the shared experiences of audiences around the world, transcending cultural boundaries to touch hearts and minds alike.

In an era dominated by big-budget spectacles, Gnizdo gorlytsi reminds us of the power of storytelling to illuminate the human condition. It's a film that celebrates the beauty of everyday life, reminding us that our choices shape not only our own destinies but also the lives of those we hold dear.

In closing, Gnizdo gorlytsi is more than just a movie - it's a heartfelt reminder of our shared humanity and the transformative power of love. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking a moving and unforgettable cinematic experience.

Chuzhaya molitva (2017)

A Testament to Courage and Compassion

[6/10 · 5 June 2018]

While "Chuzhaya Molitva" may not quite ascend to the global stage, it firmly earns an 8 for its contribution to modern Ukrainian cinematography, despite my personal rating of 6.

Based on a true story, the film chronicles the extraordinary courage of Saide, a young Crimean Tatar girl, who during World War II, saved 88 Jewish children from imminent death on two separate occasions.

In one instance, Saide ingeniously sheltered the children from German invaders, passing them off as Tatars, providing them with new identities and a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos of war. However, their respite was short-lived, as Saide faced yet another harrowing challenge at war's end - protecting her own people from forced deportation by the NKVD troops.

"Chuzhaya Molitva" is rich with metaphorical depth, offering viewers ample material for reflection and discussion long after the credits roll. The creative team behind the film adeptly crafts a compelling historical drama that not only entertains but also educates, delving into pivotal moments in Ukrainian history, including the genocide, and showcasing the indomitable spirit of individuals like Saide.

In sum, "Chuzhaya Molitva" is a poignant reminder of the power of courage and resilience in the face of adversity. While it may not boast the grandeur of Hollywood blockbusters, its exploration of universal themes and its homage to the human spirit make it a noteworthy addition to Ukrainian cinema.

Moya babusya Fani Kaplan (2016)

Blind love

[6/10 · 29 May 2017]

The full version of the tape is divided into two storylines - the main events unfold in the early XX century. And in parallel in Paris of our time. Between the journalist conducting his own investigation into the life of Fanny Kaplan and the reporter begins the novel. They have their own drama with secrets, which connect them with Kaplan's diary. From these entries, the journalist learns the details of the last years of their owner's life.

The screen version of the "Fanny Kaplan" immediately takes us to a hundred years ago.

Almost blind Fanny gets acquainted with the brother of the leader of the proletariat, Dmitry Ulyanov in the sanatorium. He falls in love with a defenceless girl. At that time he was married, but for Fanny's sake he abandoned his wife and began to live with a young mistress. He tells her a lot about his brother, helps in rehabilitation for restoring vision.

Once among the crowd, she sees her first love - Victor Garskiy. It was his fault for the unsuccessful terrorist attack that she assumed and spent ten years in jail. She almost goes crazy with love, despite the fact that she becomes Victor's secret mistress. However, this time Fanny is not going to lose him.

He appoints her a date on August 30, 1918, at the gate of the Michelson factory, to betray her again ...

By the way, in a fairly short period of time, Elena Demyanenko's drama managed to become a winner in the nomination "Best Foreign Film" at the International Film Festival in Christel Palace (London, UK).

My Grandfather Was a Cherry Tree (2015)

A Heartfelt Journey Through Generations

[5/10 · 29 May 2017]

The opening lines of "The Cherry Tree and Other Tales" transport readers into a world brimming with nostalgia and warmth, where the bonds of family and the beauty of simplicity reign supreme. Through the eyes of a young boy, we are introduced to a cast of characters as vivid and endearing as the memories they evoke: Luigi and Antonietta, Ottaviano and Teodolinda, and the irrepressible grandfather whose spirit lingers in every leaf of the cherry tree.

This enchanting tale unfolds with tenderness and humor, weaving together the threads of past and present, city and countryside, to create a tapestry of cherished moments and timeless wisdom. As the boy reminisces about his "mad" granddad and the simple joys they shared, readers are invited to rediscover the magic of childhood and the enduring power of love.

While the animated adaptation of "The Cherry Tree and Other Tales" captures glimpses of the book's charm, it falls short of capturing the depth and nuance of the original text. The simplicity of the animation, while functional, lacks the warmth and character that make the story truly come alive on the page.

In conclusion, while "The Cherry Tree and Other Tales" may offer a pleasant diversion for a few hours, true aficionados of heartfelt storytelling would be remiss to overlook the riches found within the pages of the book. With its simple yet profound language and its timeless message of love and remembrance, it stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling to touch hearts and enrich lives.