Siberia. Monamour (Sibir. Monamur)

Year: 2011
Country: RUSSIA
Run Time: 105 minutes

Surviving the bleak Siberian winters would seem like strain enough, but for abandoned seven-year-old Lyochka, the inclement weather is just the beginning. Dry wells, wild dogs, criminals, mislead military men and fate itself all seem set against his survival. Interweaving the tribulations of unfortunate travelers, director Slava Ross elicits strong performances and excellent cinematography in this unrelenting look at life in a severe and unforgiving landscape. What rays of hope there are in SIBERIA. MONAMOUR can be found in the affection between Lyochka and his favorite dog. However, the dog is part of a pack of wild canines that roam the wilderness, attacking and killing most everything in their path, including Lyochka's uncle. Initially developed under the Cannes Residence program, Ross's dramatic script uses symbolism to explore themes of redemption and survival in this captivating and suspenseful film. (In Russian with subtitles) – S.H.

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