In anticipation of the remake of 2057 For a long time I considered the film “12” great until I watched the film “12 Angry Men” directed by Cindy Lumet. One by one, illusions about the revival of domestic cinema began to disappear. Yes, Mikhalkov managed to collect an amazing acting ensemble, yes, he shot for a small amount of money, yes, he posed pressing questions, but he could not do much. Nikita Sergeyevich lost the dynamics of the narrative, zeroed the logic of what is happening, added little useful emotionality. Of course, if the goals of Mikhalkov and Lumet coincided, the film of Nikita Sergeyevich could be considered a failure.
What did Mikhalkov want? Remembering his previous work, he wanted to make a film for the people. It doesn’t matter whether the Junker will be judged by Kotov or vice versa, it is important that the story remains in the hearts of the audience. At Mikhalkov it turned out - the film got into the souls of citizens deeper than the "Ninth Company".
The classical principle of unity (time, place and action) is not only not violated, but also emphasized by various techniques. By the way, the film is recommended for all students of film universities to study and take notes. The actors know their business and play perfectly, Mikhalkov, as always, is beautiful in the image of himself.
But I have a couple of questions for the authors of the Russian adaptation of an alien scenario. Americans have a different culture, and 12 Angry Men can't just be remade. Attempt to transplant a classic film plot on Russian soil rather failed than brought any fruit. Chechnya, the difficulties of the Russian army, the occupation of living space is one thing, and the fate of the young Riko in the heyday of segregation and semi-official racism is another.
It is still unclear to me why a Chechen boy who lived in Russia for a decade never learned Russian. This is a serious mistake of the writers, such, by the way, in the film is rich. Therefore, despite the skill of the actors and stunning performance of the shooting, I put the tape a rating of 7, against Lumetov’s 9.
7 out of 10
Original