Review of Dersu Uzala (1961) by Nathan M — 18 Aug 2010

As epic and variable as Siberia, yet with the accessibility of a mainstream art film, Dersu Uzala is a great study of man. Set to the vast and uncompromising backdrop of Siberia, the film really actually proceeds on the moments of humanity throughout.

There is also plenty of levity effortlessly sprinkled in with the vast shots of trekking through the wilderness. The cinematography is really quite rich and is anchored in the splendor of nature, which engages the mind as we contemplate what the characters are going through.

The film actually reminds me of the work of another Mosfilm staple, Andrei Tarkovsky. Maksim Munzuk gives a dynamic and endearing performance as the eccentric title character.