This is pretty powerful stuff. It pulls no punches. The performance by the little boy Hadji (played by Abdul Khalim Mamutsiev) is simply outstanding. The settings – the villages under Russian bombardment, the refugees on the road... are all very gritty and convincing. At times this film just hits you in the face. The Russian army scenes do this literally. And from what I understand of new Russian army recruits it can be even worse.
The story does have a suitable ending. Annette Bening has a minor role and is eclipsed by Abdul and Berenice Bejo, the human rights worker. Definitely a very engaging film – but be prepared!
The story does have a suitable ending. Annette Bening has a minor role and is eclipsed by Abdul and Berenice Bejo, the human rights worker. Definitely a very engaging film – but be prepared!