Sermon to the Fish

Hilal Baydarov's Sermon to the Fish (2022) is a visually striking yet deeply abstract film that delves into themes of war, isolation, and existential despair. The story centers on a soldier who returns to his village after the war, only to find it unsettlingly deserted, fostering an atmosphere of loss and detachment. The cinematography is stunning, featuring long, painterly shots that evoke a profound sense of sorrow. However, the film's narrative is sparse, focusing more on symbolism and mood than on a traditional plot, which may make it a challenging experience for viewers seeking a conventional storyline.

"Sermon to the Fish" (2022) by Hilal Baydarov is a visually mesmerizing yet highly abstract film that explores war, isolation, and existential despair. It follows a soldier who returns to his village after war, only to find it eerily empty, creating a haunting atmosphere of loss and disconnection. The cinematography is breathtaking, with long, painterly shots that evoke a deep sense of melancholy. However, the film's narrative is minimal, prioritizing symbolism and mood over traditional storytelling, making it a challenging watch for those expecting a conventional plot.

Baydarov's slow, meditative style, reminiscent of Tarkovsky, demands patience. The sparse dialogue, extended silences, and philosophical undertones give the film an almost hypnotic quality. Performances are subdued, reinforcing the feeling that the characters are more symbolic than real. Sound design plays a crucial role, with natural sounds and eerie silence amplifying the film's otherworldly feel.

While the film excels in artistic depth, its extremely slow pacing and lack of a structured storyline may alienate some viewers. It's not a film that seeks to entertain but rather to provoke thought and introspection. The heavy use of allegory, particularly in its commentary on war's futility and the emptiness of human existence, gives it depth, but some symbolism may feel inaccessible.

Overall, Sermon to the Fish is a beautifully crafted but deeply unconventional film. It's ideal for those who appreciate experimental cinema and slow, poetic storytelling, but casual viewers may find it frustrating. A hypnotic, thought-provoking experience, though not one that invites easy interpretation.

"Sermon to the Fish" (2022) by Hilal Baydarov is a visually mesmerizing yet highly abstract film that explores war, isolation, and existential despair. It follows a soldier who returns to his village after war, only to find it eerily empty, creating a haunting atmosphere of loss and disconnection. The cinematography is breathtaking, with long, painterly shots that evoke a deep sense of melancholy. However, the film's narrative is minimal, prioritizing symbolism and mood over traditional storytelling, making it a challenging watch for those expecting a conventional plot.

Baydarov's slow, meditative style, reminiscent of Tarkovsky, demands patience. The sparse dialogue, extended silences, and philosophical undertones give the film an almost hypnotic quality. Performances are subdued, reinforcing the feeling that the characters are more symbolic than real. Sound design plays a crucial role, with natural sounds and eerie silence amplifying the film's otherworldly feel.

While the film excels in artistic depth, its extremely slow pacing and lack of a structured storyline may alienate some viewers. It's not a film that seeks to entertain but rather to provoke thought and introspection. The heavy use of allegory, particularly in its commentary on war's futility and the emptiness of human existence, gives it depth, but some symbolism may feel inaccessible.

"Sermon to the Fish" is a cinematic masterpiece that transcends traditional storytelling, offering a profound and poetic exploration of humanity's connection with nature and the self. The film's breathtaking visuals, paired with its meditative pacing, create an immersive experience that lingers long after the credits roll. The director's visionary approach, combined with stellar performances and a hauntingly beautiful score, elevates this work to the realm of art. Each frame feels meticulously crafted, inviting viewers to reflect on themes of existence, spirituality, and the delicate balance of life. "Sermon to the Fish" is not just a film-it's a transformative journey that challenges, inspires, and captivates. A true gem of modern cinema! 🌊🎬✨

I absolutely loved this movie! From the very beginning, it grabs your attention and never lets go. The story is unique and incredibly well-written, keeping me on the edge of my seat throughout. The performances by the cast were outstanding, each character bringing something special to the table. The direction was flawless, and the cinematography was stunning, making every scene visually captivating. The film's pacing was perfect, never dragging and always moving the story forward. The emotional depth and powerful messages it conveyed left a lasting impression on me. It's a rare gem that stays with you long after the credits roll. Highly recommend to anyone looking for an unforgettable cinematic experience.