Forbidden Empire [Viy]

Forbidden Empire, internationally known as Viy, is an enthralling fantasy-adventure film released in 2014, directed by Oleg Stepchenko. The film is based on Nikolai Gogol's 1835 novella, Viy, embarking viewers on a darkly whimsical journey through 18th century Europe. The movie unfolds the story of Jonathan Green, an audacious British cartographer, portrayed by Jason Flemyng, known for his roles in popular films like "Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels" and "Snatch".

Set in the vibrant backdrop of 18th century Europe, Forbidden Empire begins with Flemyng's character, Jonathan Green, undertaking an adventurous expedition to the East. A man committed to the intriguing world of science and a journey leading us to the unknown, Green finds himself venturing from Western Europe to the secluded corners of Transylvania and, subsequently, to the borderline of the very realms of logic and fantasy - the village lost in the Eastern wilderness that isn't noted in the modern maps.

The story is woven around the Green's gradual introduction to Eastern Europe's rich, yet uncanny folklore and the varied exotic people with lifestyles and traditions unknown to the Western world. Green, initially skeptical of the local folk stories, soon finds himself face-to-face with the mystical, the macabre, and the unfamiliar. Flemyng's character performs admirably as an enlightened foreigner, navigating his understanding of the inexplicable events gradually enveloping him with both terror and curiosity.

Andrey Smolyakov, best known for his roles in "The Christmas Tree" and "Brest Fortress", plays an essential part in this movie. Smolyakov fantastically portrays the character of an orthodox Eastern European, torn between canons and arcane folklore, further evolving the movie's enigmatic atmosphere. He presents the viewers with a unique mix of East European culture and the overwhelming dread of the unknown.

Aleksey Chadov, popular for films such as "War" and "Bummer," adds another layer of complexity to the film. As another sturdy native tangled in the twisted tapestry of eerie folklore, Chadov excellently delivers his role, causing viewers to question the border between fantasy and stark reality.

The largest part of the film's charm is its splendid cinematic execution; the dabbling mix of the picturesque, gothic, and grotesque presents an enchanting visual treat. Under Stepchenko's thoughtful direction, the unique setting of 18th-century Europe comes alive, gracefully blending everyday human life with touches of mysticism. Spectacular visual effects add a hauntingly beautiful effect to the inexplicably eerie happenings, making the audience hold on to their seats from start to finish.

Forbidden Empire is not a simple narrative; it is a formal challenge to traditional storytelling marked by its playful treatment of the dark folktale. As it progresses, the film smoothly dips into multiple genres. It's a period piece, a horror film, an adventure tale, and an whimsical romantic drama, all at once. This constant fusion of genres keeps the viewers on edge, making the viewing experience an unpredictable roller coaster ride.

The film's haunting musical score by Anton Garcia wonderfully complements the eccentric narrative and gothic settings, plunging the audience deeper into the mystery. The score amplifies the film's eerie atmosphere with enchanting ethnic melodies and symphonic orchestration.

In conclusion, Forbidden Empire is an unforgettable film that immerses you in a world brimming with mystique and enigmatic wonders. It masterfully combines the elements of horror and adventure with classic folklore, shrouded with dark humor and mystifying illusions. By offering a performance of a lifetime, Flemyng, Smolyakov, and Chadov invite the viewers to survey the realm of the impossible, where eerie stories met reality in the strangely enthralling universe of the Forbidden Empire. An exciting escapade into Eastern European folklore, the film succeeds in keeping viewers spellbound throughout its entire duration.