Anton

Anton is a compelling and poignant film that was released in 2019, starring a fascinating cast of Natalia Ryumina, Juozas Budraitis, and Simson Bubbel. The movie encapsulates a well-rounded storyline, set in the backdrop of Eastern Europe at the turn of the 20th century, specifically in 1919. It tells the tale of two best friends – the titular character, Anton (played by Simson Bubbel) and his best friend, Jakob (acted by Juozas Budraitis), set amidst the historical events of that era.

As the narrative unfolds, it highlights a unique friendship that grows and flourishes between Anton and Jakob, despite the harsh socio-political realities that surround them. Anton is an ethnic Ukrainian, while Jakob is Jewish, a fact that does not deter their bond, but instead strengthens it. The boys navigate a world scarred by brutal violence, religious bigotry, and the horrors of war, with their shared experiences revealing their humanity in an even starker light. Their journey to manhood is rigorously tested with the chaos ensuing from the First World War and the simultaneous times of the Russian Revolution.

Natalia Ryumina's character plays a significant role in portraying the intricate complexities of the period and the place. As she interacts with the main protagonists, her character helps to impart essential aspects of life in Eastern Europe at the time, thus lending a personal and emotional layer that complements the historical aspect of the story.

One of the standout features of Anton is the way in which it portrays the turbulent times with such detailed precision. Director Zaza Urushadze, known for movies like "Tangerines", demonstrates remarkable skill in capturing the grit, reality and the poignant human tragedies that occur amidst such turmoil. The film tackles themes of friendship, religious tension, societal divisions, and horrors of war with unflinching honesty, thus presenting a multi-layered and thought-provoking piece that lingers in memory long after the credits roll.

Another component contributing to the film's depth is its rich historical context, woven skillfully into the narrative. The events occurring during this period—ranging from the aftermath of World War I, the Russian Revolution, and the rise of the Soviet Union—are presented as a stark backdrop, dramatically influencing the lives of our protagonists. In this context, the film does more than just tell a personal story; it offers a vivid recounting of a crucial turning point in world history, allowing the audience to witness how larger socio-political events can drastically impact individual lives.

In terms of cinematography, the film stands out with its raw, realistic and gritty style. The landscapes and sceneries of Eastern Europe are beautifully and authentically captured, immersing viewers into the atmosphere of the early 20th century, setting a tone that reverberates throughout the film.

As for the performances, the lead actors Natalia Ryumina, Juozas Budraitis, and Simson Bubbel, deliver commendable performances. Simson Bubbel as Anton exudes a potent mix of naivety and growing disillusionment as he navigates the harsh realities of war-torn society. Juozas Budraitis plays Jakob with a depth and complexity that make his character’s journey engaging. Natalia Ryumina adds a crucial layer to the film, with her brilliantly emotive portrayal grounding the film with the perspective of women during this tumultuous period.

Moving and impactful, Anton is a powerful film steeped in history, but it is more than a simple historical drama. It is a reminder of the enduring power of friendship, a haunting portrayal of humanity amid violent unrest, and a testament to the strength of the human spirit during the most challenging of times. Despite the grim backdrop of war and revolution, it manages to convey a sense of hope, resilience, and the perpetuating belief in the power of friendship and shared humanity. With its compelling plot, step back in history, and unforgettable performances, Anton is a film not to be missed by any ardent follower of cinema.