Muzyka dlya dekabrya

The 1990s were a decade of deep changes in Russia and, with a few notable exceptions, not very productive as far as cinema is concerned. Dykhovichny's style was unique already for this age. Some lines in this film were to be further explored in his later film "Vdokh, vydokh".

Aleksandr Larin returns to Saint Petersburg in this changed country from the US because he realises he left something pending, namely the dream of a life together with the young woman he loves, Masha. Aleksandr used to love Anna, but fell in love and had a short relationship with Anna's daughter, Masha. Feeling guilt he left for the US. His return turns upside the lives of Anna (who, in the meantime has married a Russian new rich she does not love) and the more calculating Masha, who is engaged to Mitya, a young artist.

The film is a collection of scenes, as if in a theatre play, where profound subjects are lightly touched, not fully developed: what money can buy and can't (art, talent, a meaningful life, love), greed, patriotism. Is loneliness the price of becoming wealthy?

The cinematography is very good, the music by Anton Batagov is excellent.