Sobachye Serdtse

"Sobachye Serdtse", also known as "Heart of a Dog", is a Russian movie released in 1988, directed by Vladimir Bortko. The film presents a socio-political satire and is based on the eponymous novel by celebrated Russian author Mikhail Bulgakov. The film stars Evgeniy Evstigneev, Vladimir Tolokonnikov, and Boris Plotnikov in pivotal roles. Constructed with sharp wit and piercing humor, "Sobachye Serdtse" remains a significant piece of cinema that reflects on profound social and political themes of its time.

The story begins with Professor Preobrazhensky, played by Evgeniy Evstigneev, an acclaimed surgeon residing in the heart of Moscow. He lives a comfortable life in his large apartment, together with his loyal aide Dr. Bormenthal (Boris Plotnikov), his housemaid Zina, and a parade of transient patients who seek his unconventional but effective medical expertise. He maintains an opulent lifestyle distinct from the typical Soviet citizen’s. Preobrazhensky is notable for his opposition to the Bolshevik government's interference in people's personal lives, consistently conveying his ideological conflict through his dialogue.

A pivotal moment in the story arrives when Professor Preobrazhensky stumbles upon a stray dog, suffering in the harsh Moscow winter. The canine, Sharik, soon becomes a vital part of the Professor's life. However, the Professor's interest in the dog exceeds the usual pet-owner sentiments, introducing us to a strange and turbulent narrative.

Vladimir Tolokonnikov plays the dog, Sharik, lending a unique persona to the stray mongrel. As the story progresses, Sharik's character undergoes a series of transformations through the Professor's eccentric practices, landing the viewer directly into the core science fiction element of the plot.

Throughout the movie, the opulent setting of the Professor's apartment hosts a medley of characters illustrating a multitude of societal roles and classes. Each visitor, and their interaction with the Professor, provides a clear reflection of the prevailing sociopolitical fabric of Soviet Russia. A humorously cynical view of the Soviet bureaucracy often takes center stage, providing a layer of dark comedy to the narrative.

The director, Vladimir Bortko, tactfully captures the essence of Bulgakov's novel in the cinematic narrative. Filled with pointed commentary, the film is a scathing critique of the Soviet regime's social engineering efforts. It questions the core principles of forcible societal transformation and sheds light on the moral and philosophical dilemmas associated with it.

Apart from their tangible performances, the primary cast is also distinguished for the remarkable depth they bring to their characters. Evgeniy Evstigneev impresses with his portrayal of the irascible yet intriguing Professor. His performance elegantly intertwines the character's vanity and compassion, resulting in a complex and striking protagonist. Meanwhile, Vladimir Tolokonnikov brings palpable charm to Sharik, invoking both sympathy and amusement. Boris Plotnikov as Dr. Bormenthal establishes a meaningful and tense chemistry with Evstigneev, further enhancing the narrative's drama.

The score – composed and arranged by the veteran, Gennady Gladkov – adds an essential dimension to the film. It complements the narrative faithfully and enhances the overall cinematic experience. The costume design and sets are impressive, meticulously reproducing the 1920s Moscow milieu, which contributes significantly to the film's atmospheric characteristics.

In its essence, "Sobachye Serdtse" is more than just a political satire or a screen adaptation of a popular novel. It is a film that explored deep philosophical questions of science, humanity, and society cloaked in a touching narrative of a surgeon and a stray dog. This film remains a critically acclaimed gem in the annals of Russian cinema, making it a must-watch for any cinephile interested in a narrative that combines social commentary, humor, and heart.