Nochnoy Dozor (Night Watch)

Starring: Konstantin Khabensky, Vladimir Menshov, Valeri Zolotukhin, Mariya Poroshina, Galina Tyunina
Directed by: Timur Bekmambetov
Rating: R
Genre: Horror, Action
2004

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: Among humans, live two groups of "others" who possess supernatural powers. In Moscow, the dark others roam the night as vampires, while the a Night Watch of light warriors battle them.

Review:

Tim: Crazy Russians. I don't know much about Russian cinema, but I know this is one of the country's biggest films of all time. The story is fresh and interesting, and I have little problems with the plot. The biggest concerns are with the filmmaking techniques, many of which are absurd. The movie gives an interesting spin to the vampire genre of film, and surprisingly takes a new approach. This is incredibly refreshing for a genre which has been all but played out in recent years.

The film is stylish and different and is very memorable to watch. I especially loved the subtitles in red. It added a creepy and frightening aspect to the film. The movie was made more powerful through little details like this.

When I first finished the film, I was not really sure what to think. I was not blown away, but I wasn't terribly disappointed, either. A funny thing happened over the next 24 hours. I found myself going over the film again and again in my mind. The movie is not one you can easily forget, and it will stay with you long after you finish the flick. I especially loved the "Come out of the Gloom" lines- there is something creepy and cool about the whole concept.

Night Watch is not a great movie. However, taken in context, it is an amazing Russian film. So much is packed into this film that repeat viewings are almost required.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 7



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: Day Watch, 28 Days Later