maria-voynova

Being shot in 1978, the 'Vacation in September' had been immediately forbidden as critics have considered it as a decadent film. Only 9 years later was this film released for the first time. The film is based on Soviet Union dramatist Vampilov's play, and directed by Mikhaylov, a well-known director. But what makes this film one of its kind is the best ever cast which includes Leonov, Gundareva, Bogatyrev, Ukupchenko and Oleg Dal, a genius actor. The film is set in a typical Soviet Union urban city with gloomy construction landscapes which is the best reflection of the time being described. The film describes "the morning after "of the main character, engineer Zilov, who, having woken up, finds the funeral wreath at his place – his friends' present. This rather symbolic joke makes him recollect the previous night as well as 2 last months. With the events developing the viewer finds himself totally involved in this merely recollection which is gradually transformed into a deep analysis and soul-searching. As well as the protagonist we are invited to look intently and unvarnishedly at the most unpleasant, unattractive and sometimes repulsive features of the main character. But at the same time we can't help noticing how frank and fearless Zilov is in his determined decision to go up to the end whatever it is. Standing out of others, he just emphasize on the similarity with them. And only his willing to understand his own nature differs him from the others, who symbolically present the whole society of that time. And miraculously the funeral wreath turns into a crown of the winner. Apart from the Dal's absolutely brilliant performance, the other actors' one is totally believable. Although, the plot is quite complicated and full of symbols to be realized, the film is definitely worth seeing it. It will appeal to everyone who is interested in serious, thought-provoking movies as well as to those who adore Oleg Dal's acting.