The Theme

The Theme is a provocatively remarkable film issued out of the USSR in 1979. The movie stars Mikhail Ulyanov, Inna Churikova, and Evgeniy Vesnik in key roles along with other talented artists of the Soviet film industry. Helmed by the well-known director Gleb Panfilov, The Theme delves deeply into the subjects of individualism, creativity, political censorship, and morality. Panfilov demonstrates a keen eye for capturing the inner struggles of his characters within the overarching structure of the Soviet Union.

Mikhail Ulyanov magnificently leads the cast in his portrayal of the protagonist Kim Yesenin. He is a well-regarded Moscow playwright who is slowly becoming disillusioned with his professional life, which is predominantly focused on producing seemingly superficial patriotic plays that adhere to the state's directives.

His character is complex and intricately sculpted. On the one hand, Yesenin is established professionally and enjoys certain privileges that come with his success, on the other hand, he is tormented by his creative impotence and perfunctory approach towards his craft. The system favors him, but he is losing himself as an artist in the process and this cognitive dissonance serves as a central theme of the film.

Inna Churikova delivers a fantastic performance as Sasha Nikolaeva, an eccentric provincial museum guide who Yesenin clashes with during a trip to rural Russia. Their inadvertent meeting proves to be a turning point for Yesenin derived from Sasha’s brutal honesty about his work. They connect through these intense intellectual exchanges and this unexpected relationship casts a stark contrast between Yesenin's metro-based, privileged life and the reality of life in the Soviet hinterlands.

Evgeniy Vesnik smoothly performs as Shushkov, a staunchly loyal friend of Yesenin. He acts as a bridge between Yesenin and the system, repeatedly trying to assuage Yesenin’s discontent while subtly hinting at his need for continued compliance. He paints a vivid picture of how many people chose to navigate their lives in the Soviet wagon and what it took to remain there.

The title of the film, The Theme, refers to Yesenin's ongoing quest for inspiration and exposes the multiple layers of bureaucracy interfering with the creative process. His struggle to find ‘the theme’ for his next play, something worth writing about, something truthful, becomes a metaphor for the broader struggle for artistic and individual freedom within the constraints of Soviet society.

The aesthetic beauty of the film is another point of allure. The cinematographer skillfully captures the contrast between the organized, bustling city life of Moscow and the soulful, gritty charm of rural Russia. The combination of the natural beauty of rural landscapes, candid shots of historic buildings, and the rustic charm of old provincial towns presents an immersive cinematic experience.

Moreover, the director's decision to shoot scenes on location adds authenticity that further enhances the storyline – it's not just a backdrop, but an essential part of the narrative, reflecting the harsh realities and uncouth appeal of Soviet life in the late '70s.

The film at its heart is far more than just a tale of a floundering playwright. It is an interrogation of the human spirit and the lengths one may go to retain their individuality. Furthermore, it's a social commentary on professional satisfaction, public opinion, the personal consequences of rejecting or conforming to the system, and the universal search for authenticity – themes that still resonate globally.

The Theme is a work of art that lucidly captures the issues cutting across the bounds of time and place, making it an ageless, universal exploration of human endurance. Its powerful visuals and compelling narrative, driven by outstanding performances, makes this film an absolute must-watch for anyone interested in cinema that dares to question and provoke.

The Theme from 1979, beyond being a courageous movie that directly critiques Soviet policy, is substantially a timeless artwork that examines the human desire for artistic integrity amidst the pressures of political correctness, a dichotomy that sparks self-reflection and prods at viewer conscience.