Mermaid

Mermaid is a whimsical Russian film that was released in 2007. Directed and written by the talented Anna Melikyan, the film is a magical realist exploration of a young girl's life and dreams. Anchored by a stunning performance by Mariya Shalayeva, the film also features Evgeniy Tsyganov and Mariya Sokova.

The film revolves around an enchanting and dreamy protagonist, Alisa, portrayed by Mariya Shalayeva. Born in a small coastal town, Alisa grows up to be a special girl with an unusual gift– she can turn her dreams and wishes into reality. Fascinatingly, the filmmakers trace the course of Alisa's life from her birth, as told by Alisa herself, navigating through her teenage years and stretching into her adulthood. The story is spiced with elements of magic realism that enhance the surreal experiences the film takes you through.

As a child, Alisa's strong ability to wish things into actuality sometimes leads to unintended tragicomic consequences, a significant point that provides a sometimes humorous, sometimes melancholic backbone to the narrative of the film. As she grows older, Alisa's dreams burgeon and expand beyond the boundaries of her small town, pushing her to leave her seashore life behind in pursuit of a thriving future in the bustling city of Moscow.

In arrived Moscow, Alisa is overcome with urban loneliness and stark culture shock. Nonetheless, she discovers herself in the environ of this heated technological race, where giant cell phones function as showcases of success and new buildings sprout like weeds. Here, she encounters a multitude of characters who are both vivid and intricate in their own ways — from street hustlers and bureaucrats to prospective partners and bosses.

Alisa's life takes a remarkable turn when she meets Sasha, an enigmatic man played by Evgeniy Tsyganov. Sasha is a successful businessman, the embodiment of modern Russian success who stands ideologically and societally distant from Alisa's magical realist world. As Alisa falls into unrequited love with Sasha, she is forced to face several realities about her dreams and the real world around her.

What is impressive about Mermaid is not just its compelling storyline but also the masterful execution of artistic components such as cinematography and soundtrack. The striking visuals of the movie are beautifully composed, with director of photography Oleg Lukichev painting a stunning panorama of Alisa's homeland seashore, as well the industrial cityscape of Moscow. The themes of love, longing, isolation and personal growth are masterfully underscored with a superb soundtrack.

Mariya Shalayeva’s performance is truly noteworthy. Her portrayal of Alisa is nothing short of magical. Evgeniy Tsyganov delivers a strong performance as Sasha, effectively depicting his character's pivotal role in Alisa's life. The scenes featuring the pair feel genuinely intimate and haunting.

In essence, Mermaid is a mesmerizing blend of magical realism and contemporary societal exploration. With Anna Melikyan's creative prowess and the award-winning performance from Shalayeva, the film crafts a thought-provoking storyline that not only entertains but also causes one to reflect on the blurred line between reality and dreams, and the consequences of wishes. While centered upon Russian society and culture, Mermaid extends its appeal to global audiences with its universal themes and memorable, relatable characters. The film's strength lies in its ability to poignantly speak to the human condition, exploring our dreams, hardships, and search for love and meaning.