Most Helpful Customer Reviews
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14 of 16 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
An example of excellent book adaptation, March 15, 2003
The picture of this DVD may not be the perfect one (which is a pity) but it is definitely worth watching. This is one on those rare films which prove that a long and complicated book can be filmed. Everything... from actors, who gave some outstanding performances, to sets, is almost exactly as I imagined it while reading the novel. It is not just a romantic story as it is shown in the other film versions, but a very serious, tragic social drama. This film is by far the best adaptation of the great novel.
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26 of 33 people found the following review helpful:
1.0 out of 5 stars
Sad DVD of interesting film!, February 21, 2003
By A Customer
What a pity! I've been waiting for almost 35 years to see this film. And when I finally do, it feels like taking a cold shower without warning! Produced by the Russian Cinema Counsil, and distributed by Ruscico/Image, this DVD is a visual mess. Originally filmed in 70mm, this ought to look absolutely splendid; instead, the print (or negative?) used for transfer displays dreadfully washed out colors, lousy contrasts, and looks so soft that it almost made my eyes hurt. Was this really the best source material that could be found in the vaults? I do not think so! Old Soviet archives were famous for taking good care of their cultural heritage (provided, of course, that the artists involved did not do something politically or morally "incorrect"), and this film appealed to the powers in the Kremlin as splendid export material. So what went wrong? Better leave this kind of job to the people at Criterion in the future!
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9 of 10 people found the following review helpful:
3.0 out of 5 stars
Good movie, but film quality somewhat poor, March 8, 2004
This movie by far keeps the essence of the classic Russian masterpiece. The English versions were awful, and I was very delighted to have the pleasure of viewing this Russian production. The quality of the film is lacking, but nothing terrible. This movie sticks closely to the story except for the absence of "Levin's story". His relationship with Kitty is there, but briefly. No detailed perspective on the importance of his charcter, and no mention of his brother. Also, there was no revelation for Kitty's transformed outlook on life after her sickness and before marrying Levin. The main storyline with Anna, husband Karenin, and Vronsky was well done. I enjoyed it. Overall, it was good. I'm glad to have it on my shelf in my colection of Russian movies.
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