Before I get started, lets state one thing. If Action, Sex, Explosions, Comedy etc are your thing and you never deviate then this film is definitely not for you.
So whats left? What makes this film great?
Well, to be honest this is an extremely moving true story that really captures your imagination and the thought that it actually happened to a group of near strangers made it even harder to believe - but because it did, and it affected a group of WW2 prisoners in such a way that defies belief makes you sit back in awe of their achievement.
I loved this.
The Gulag, one of the worlds most severe prisons. Deep in Siberia its the wilderness and desolate location that acts as the guards, not the guns, dogs and watchtowers.
A group of Polish, American & Russian prisoners devise a way to escape, knowing that they would need to survive the 4000km trek to freedom.
Mark Strong is the brains behind the plan, although not venturing on the trek himself he makes a few inmates believe it can be done. Its not until the arrival of Janusz, a young Polish guy accused of soviet spying who believes Strong's words and devises an escape. In tow are Colin Farrell, (a Russian career criminal) & Ed Harris (an American patriot), along with a few others who Janusz befriends inside.
Soon after they manage to escape, battling the severe Siberian winter(s) their trek takes them across Russia, Mongolia, into China and then via the Himalayas, onto India. I checked it on Google Maps - that's a pretty epic journey!!
Along their way they meet a young girl, also on the run and decide to take her along.
Sadly, only 3 make it to India (No plot spoiler - it tells you at the start of the movie) but that does not necessarily mean the rest die - merely go separate ways? but there is some tragedy. You will have to wait and see who makes it!!
I cant categorise this for you other than that it makes you really think about your own lives and what you would do in this situation. Battle on for the thought of survival? Stay true to your moral beliefs leaving no man behind? realising that in the face of sincere danger you are stronger as a team?
It's epic. Amazing scenery, beautiful acting and an truly amazing story. If Historical or factual movies float your boat then buy a big bag of popcorn, settle down, leave the kids at home and revel in what is a definite future masterpiece.
On a Bank Holiday Tuesday, the cinema was full to capacity for this adventure and there was silence from start to finish. Captivating, inspiring and beyond belief.
To those Gulag inmates of the 40's, I salute you. Brave souls in the harshest conditions.
See this if...................................you believe cinema is more than guns and bombs!!
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