Desyat Negrityat

Desyat Negrityat, a 1987 Soviet film directed by Stanislav Govorukhin, is a captivating and suspense-filled adaptation of Agatha Christie’s renowned detective mystery novel, “And Then There Were None." The film stars various esteemed artists such as Vladimir Zeldin, Tatyana Drubich, and Aleksandr Kaydanovskiy, among others.

Set in the late 1930s, the storyline revolves around ten strangers who are invited to a secluded mansion on a mysterious, deserted island by an anonymous host. The entrancing cast includes characters from diverse backgrounds - from a judge, a secret serviceman, and a doctor, to a former police inspector, a soldier of fortune, and a retired general. As the visitors arrive at the island, a sense of eerie anticipation starts to build.

The mysterious host remains unseen, yet held an aura of authority, offering the guests luxurious accommodation and fine dining. It seems to be a well-orchestrated gathering until a disturbing, pre-recorded message is played. The voice on the record accuses each person present of having a dark secret - being responsible for the death of another person. The accusation leaves the party stunned and bewildered, escalating the tension in the mansion.

The extraordinary Vladimir Zeldin, cast as the retired judge, masterfully portrays the wisdom and stoicism of a man questioning justice. Tatyana Drubich, displaying a vulnerable yet charming demeanor, steals the screen as Vera Claythorne, the secretary falsely accused of killing her former employer's nephew. Aleksandr Kaydanovskiy, as the enigmatic soldier of fortune, gives a poignant performance that adds to the film's explosive dynamic.

With the accusations laid out, the one thing that ties all these varied characters together are their hidden secrets and the consequences thereof. As the plot unravels, the title Desyat Negrityat, loosely translated as "Ten Little Negroes," begins to make sense. One by one, guests start to die, each death reflecting a verse of a nursery rhyme titled "Ten Little Negroes" that hangs ominously in each bedroom. The island's isolation becomes a harsh reality as it becomes clear that no help will arrive, amplifying the palpable fear and paranoia.

The film maintains an atmosphere of suspense and creating an excellent whodunit mystery. As each character is killed off, the panic among the remaining guests escalitates, leading to a suspenseful standoff as suspicion falls on each survivor. The audience is kept on the edge of their seat, as they, along with the film's characters, try to guess the identity of the murderer.

Desyat Negrityat adds a distinct Soviet ambiance to Christie's book, successfully integrating elements of the lavish aristocratic culture of pre-war Russia. The island's austere beauty, coupled with the grandeur of the mansion, makes for stunning visuals that contrast sharply with the film's grim theme. The costumes and set design are executed with an attention to detail that transports the viewer back in time to a bygone era, further enhancing the cinematic experience.

Moreover, the film taps into philosophical and ethical discussion around the nature of guilt, penance and societal norms. The accusations against the characters bring into focus the moral ambiguity of their actions, leading the audience to question what consists true justice and how punishment should be meted out.

The engaging storyline and brilliant performances by the cast lend Desyat Negrityat a timeless appeal. The film's combination of mystery, suspense, drama, and moral grappling leaves a lasting impression on viewers. Director Stanislav Govorukhin's adaptation of Agatha Christie’s novel with indigenous touch is an intriguing blend, making Desyat Negrityat a masterpiece in the realm of suspense and mystery. It is truly a must-watch for fans of Agatha Christie's work and lovers of crime thrillers.