LEVIATHAN

Audiences will be lured by the dark side of human nature, as this pessimistic story of an array of unlikeable and negative characters unfolds.

When his property is falsely repossessed by a corrupt mayor, Kolya’s (Alexei Serebriakou) world is turned upside down and further compounded by blind love, false friendships and misguided truth.

Long and laborious, further complicated by quick-flowing subtitles, this modern day tragedy is strangely effective as it de-glorifies relationships and society in general.

Stereotyped Russian characters whose abhorrent overuse of alcohol and cigarettes complement the repressed mood of the film, are brilliantly portrayed by a cast little known outside Russia.

Visually stunning photography of barren and isolated landscapes is also cleverly utilised to highlight the pervading moral desolation.

Audiences will be divided by this award winning film about faith, power and corruption. (MMo)

***1/2