First off, Aleksander Sokurov's "Russian Ark" is a bold technical achievement that pushes filmmaking to new realms of possibility with its 90 minute long steadicam shot and striking HD cinematography. It also makes excellent use of the Hermitage museum in St. Petersburg, allowing us to explore - through the first-person narrator - its niches, crevaces and spaces as if we, the viewer are actually there. In addition to this, there is the narrative conceit of having these spaces inhabited by various political figures and characters representing three centuries of Russian history.
Unfortunately, it is with the latter creative endeavour that the film fails to fully deliver. It is as if Sokurov has too many concepts that he is trying to balance. We have a metaphysical journey reminiscent of Resnais' "Last Year at Marienbad," coupled with historical docudrama, and a travelogue for the Hermitage. The European diplomat/aristrocrat figure who we follow for most of the film is a baffling creation, who is more often than not grating and off-putting. The splendour of the Hermitage is minimized amidst this man's distracting banter.
As mentioned earlier, there are metaphysical elements as well, overlapping various time frames, and allowing characters from various time frames to occupy the same space simultaneously.
One wonders what a seasoned pro like Tom Stoppard ("Arcadia," "Indian Ink") would have made of the material. Its innate theatricality demands someone of his narrative skill.
Nevertheless, "Ark" is an intriguing piece that provokes conversation, despite its frustrating moments. See it in theatrical release, as the widescreen HD cinematography and breathtaking locale make it something to behold on a big screen.
Unfortunately, it is with the latter creative endeavour that the film fails to fully deliver. It is as if Sokurov has too many concepts that he is trying to balance. We have a metaphysical journey reminiscent of Resnais' "Last Year at Marienbad," coupled with historical docudrama, and a travelogue for the Hermitage. The European diplomat/aristrocrat figure who we follow for most of the film is a baffling creation, who is more often than not grating and off-putting. The splendour of the Hermitage is minimized amidst this man's distracting banter.
As mentioned earlier, there are metaphysical elements as well, overlapping various time frames, and allowing characters from various time frames to occupy the same space simultaneously.
One wonders what a seasoned pro like Tom Stoppard ("Arcadia," "Indian Ink") would have made of the material. Its innate theatricality demands someone of his narrative skill.
Nevertheless, "Ark" is an intriguing piece that provokes conversation, despite its frustrating moments. See it in theatrical release, as the widescreen HD cinematography and breathtaking locale make it something to behold on a big screen.