"Russian Ark" is an amazing film because it fulfils the greatest possible experience that can be achieved when visiting a place like the Hermitage. When one goes to museums like this, the imagination is constantly at work trying to create situations and fantasies that are situated in the surroundings. These fantasies are often historical in nature, but in the end it leads to, hopefully, a deeper understanding of the beauty, culture, people, and history that the place inhabits. These moments of transcendence are difficult to achieve, and fleeting once found. This film creates that desired dream state and holds it for 100 minutes, or however long the film is. The audience is led through tidbits of the lives of numerous characters by the always likeable "tour guide" who is experiencing many of the same emotions and curiosity as the viewer. Instead of confining this film to traditional narrative, Sokurev creates a completely unique film experience by blending dreams, history, and visual beauty that takes the viewer on a beautiful trip. This film does make a point about the immortality of art and beauty, and the importance of maintaining one's cultural and artistic history. In the end, it is the trip, or vacation that is most appealing.
Review of Russian Ark
