Much like the acclaimed work of the film's protagonists, Glubzhe! is both shallow and nuanced, crude and yet surprisingly witty.
Some shots are exceedingly length and a few actors left more to be desired in their acting. Lapenko's appearance was a welcome delight and was, truth be told, one of the reasons I decided to watch.
Despite what I've already said and the 6 star rating hanging over these words, I still think that more films like this should exist, and I think that, ultimately, this is a good film.
Although 'out-loud' laughs are often sparse, there are many subtly humorous situations. Moreover, a great deal of the allusions and subject matter surround Russia's identity -
Chekov, the Imperial era, classical theatre - these are all brushed aside. Tostoi's portrait hangs in the protagonist's dingy, dilapidated apartment. Meanwhile, modern, sleek, and wealthy Russia is portrayed as dim-witted men in suits and porn-obsessed masses...
By my description, it's a little on the nose - and a lot of this film is just that. But at the same time, there was a strange kinship that I felt while watching this movie, that is was made by a group of people who care for the fate of their country.
For a film about porn and corruption, the overall message of this film is a positive one that leaves one with a warm feeling, deep inside.
