Leviathan
classified 15 SPlease note: This was screened in Nov 2014
Andrei Zvyagintsev (The Return, The Banishment and Elena) returns with this magisterial new work, which deservedly scooped the Best Film prize at the London Film Festival last month. Set on the edge of civilisation in Northern Russia, it tells of the tragic conflict between a car mechanic Kolia (Alexei Serebriakov) and a corrupt mayor (a fantastically despicable Roman Madyanov) who wants Kolia's land to build a gruesome luxury dacha. Kolia tries desperately to resist the sale with the help of a childhood friend, but of course, the noose tightens around his neck from every perceivable angle.
This is a heavy hitting, beautifully photographed film that expertly reflects on some rather grand themes that should not be ignored. As the Guardian put in their five star review: "So much cinema is content with small fry - minor themes and manageable topics. Leviathan is hunting bigger game." And what a brilliant catch it is.
Ticket prices: Screenings before 16:00: £5.50 full / £4.00 concessions. Screenings after 16:00: £8.00 full / £6.50 concessions.