Duobeje

I never thought I would start a review by addressing legal threats, but here we are. The makers of *Duobeje* have reportedly resorted to intimidation tactics, threatening to sue critics who dare write a negative review. But, after watching this movie, it's clear why they'd feel the need to silence criticism-*Duobeje* is a mess from start to finish.

The film suffers from a confused plot, paper-thin characters, and laughably bad dialogue. It feels like a rushed, half-baked attempt to string together disjointed scenes in the hope that something sticks. The pacing is all over the place, leaving audiences either bored to tears or bewildered by the sudden shifts in tone.

Performances range from wooden to over-the-top, with none of the cast able to breathe life into their characters. The direction is equally lacking, with awkward camera angles and poor editing choices that make the film a chore to sit through.

Visually, *Duobeje* doesn't fare much better. The cinematography is bland, the special effects amateurish, and the overall production quality feels cheap. Even the soundtrack, which should have added some emotional depth or tension, only serves as a distraction with its generic, uninspired score.

Threatening critics won't change the fact that *Duobeje* is a cinematic misfire. If anything, it only highlights the filmmakers' desperation to control the narrative surrounding a movie that just doesn't work. Instead of wasting time on legal battles, the creators should focus on producing a film worth watching next time.

There's not much to say here, but a film that was meant to evoke intensity, fear, and the essence of survival ended up being unintentionally funny from start to finish.

The plot felt random, with unnecessary elements like casual racism and an out-of-place assault scene (which, like 80% of the characters, served no purpose).

The film was filled with logical inconsistencies, and most of the acting was subpar, with the exception of the lead actor, Ainis Storpirstis, who stood out.

The movie lacked direction, failing to focus on the main character's survival journey (ironically, he did everything except try to survive).

It was so poorly executed that people in the theater began laughing, cringing, and talking, as it became clear that the director had no grasp on how to engage the audience.

Duobeje is an ambitious movie that succeeds in creating an atmospheric experience but struggles to deliver a fully satisfying narrative. The cinematography is undeniably stunning-each frame feels meticulously crafted, with moody lighting and symbolic imagery that pull you into its melancholic world.

The performances are solid, particularly from the lead actors, who bring subtle emotion to roles that often feel underwritten. The film explores themes of isolation and identity, but its pacing can be slow, and at times it leans too heavily on ambiguity without offering enough payoff.

While Duobeje is admirable for its artistic intent and aesthetic, it left me wanting more in terms of character development and emotional connection. It's the kind of film that may resonate deeply with some viewers, but for others, it might feel more like a beautiful puzzle missing a few crucial pieces.

So, if you want an honest review - here is one. All that are below are 2 extreme sides. The negative comments look like coming from exact same group with similar rhetoric :) do not bring down your own people. Support them when they are trying to do something.

Well

To start with, we should acknowledge that it's not Hollywood and as a foreigner I was pleasantly surprised from Lithuanian filmography. I will be honest, my expectations were not super high, however I have watched the film with interest, it keeps you on, it professionally passes the feelings that the main actor goes through. The actor who played the uncle was my favourite. So handsome and so talented!! I will be waiting for the second part :)

"Duobeje" captivated me from the very beginning with its intense atmosphere and dramatic tension. Ruslan Abdulajev has masterfully crafted a film where suspense continually builds and the sense of threat is palpable at every turn. The way the narrative unfolds keeps you on edge, with each scene adding to the mounting pressure. Vytautas Kaniusonis and Ainis Storpirstis delivered exceptionally convincing performances, bringing both realism and emotional depth to the story. Their portrayals enhanced the film's impact, making the experience even more immersive. This was my first encounter with a Lithuanian survival genre film, and it left a profound impression on me. The combination of gripping suspense and strong performances makes this film a standout. If you are seeking something new that will keep you captivated and on edge until the very end, I highly recommend giving this film a watch.