Возвращение

Or you might know it as Vozvrashcheniye.
Or maybe The Return.

Russian films aren't known for their feel-good quality or for being first pick in the disposable entertainment category. However, I'm finding them consistently well-executed, thought-provoking and highly emotional. I'm almost proud to be part Russian :)

The Return is one of my favorite Russian films. The plot is relatively simple: two boys living with their mother in a sleepy coastal village are paid an unexpected visit from their father after a 12-year absense.

At first glance we see the father is trying to make up for lost time by taking the boys on fishing trip. However, the veneer gives way to issues of control and abuse leaving the two boys to face some "adult" situations without preparation. In the end the father has fundamentally good intentions, despite nefarious circumstances. What the two boys learn from their father in his short return is somewhat intense, as is what the brothers learn from each other.

What I liked about this film, despite its austere tone, was the incredible acting job from Konstantin Lavronenko (the father) and the kids playing the two brothers. Each one deserves some sort of award. Although one of the kids died in a boating accident shortly after the film's release, he sure left a mark on the cinematic world with his one and only film.




The Return

9.5/10