The Return- Directed by Andrei Zvyagintsev

The Return, a 2003 film directed by Andrei Zvyagintsev was a film that was instantly captivating in its simplicity and elegance. It is the story of two young boys, Ivan (who also goes by the nickname Vanya) and his older brother Andrei whose father comes home after a twelve year absence. Upon his return, the two boys wish to go on a trip with him to get acquainted, but little do they know that this trip will be more than they expected. The very relationship between the brothers is tested as they endure the treatment of their father, much of which is negative. The progression of the film is measured in days of the week, the trio eventually reaching their remote islandic destination after a few days of traveling. It is on this island that they encounter the most life changing experience of them all: their father dies after attempting to save Ivan from the tower he climbed.

The film is blatantly influenced by renown Russian director Andrei Tarkovsky, the emphasis of Tarkovsky's films being based on the elements. Each of the four elements can be found in this film; examples of each being easy to find. An example that includes earth and wind is when Vanya asks Andrei to take a picture of him as they are driving; the green trees and blustery wind being the main points of the scene. Another example of two elements being combined is the shot where the fish is roasting on the fire; this demonstrates both the element of water and the element of fire. Zvyagintsev goes as far as to make an obvious reference to a Tarkovsky film, Mirror, with his shot of dripping water as Ivan and Andrei walk out of the scene. The usage of these Tarkovsky-esque traits makes the film much more enjoyable to watch and gives the viewer a better understanding as to the significance of the scenes.

Altogether, I think The Return is the best film we have seen so far in the class and has the deepest meaning behind it. The tale of Vanya and Andrei is one of growth and expansion, not only in the familial sense, but growing as men. The many mishaps the brothers and their father endure, including the death of their father, make the boys stronger and more prepared to face the world as they come back to civilization. However, this growth is not without consequence; Ivan becomes stricken with guilt over their father's death. This is shown through his sheer desperation as his corpse sinks into the water. In any case, I enjoyed The Return and would recommend it to anyone who wanted to watch an amazing film, and maybe grow a little bit themselves.