An interesting, if flawed, biopic about Alexander Kolchak, Russian admiral during World War I, and after the Russian revolution, leader of the Russian whites during the civil war. I know the Soviet Union ended more than 20 years ago, but I was still surprised to see such a reverent movie about one of the leaders of the Russian whites. For example, the scene where Kolchak takes command of his army with the blessing of the Russian Orthodox Church is told with soaring musing, and without any hint of irony. Story of his romance with the wife of one of his fellow officers adds very little (in fact, probably detracts) from the film. In summary, a generally well made film and with a relatively generous budget, but a bit too reverent and solemn toward its subject.
14 Reviews
Modern Russian historic movie
Tatiana_G30 October 2008
When I was about to watch this film I did not bother to read the critical articles in the papers or in the Internet. Initially I looked upon the film as just an entertainment, but the impression turned to be much deeper. What puzzles me is the reaction towards the film in the Russian media. After I left the cinema I was most convinced that "Admiral" is worth almost unanimous public acclaim for this film is an attempt to investigate probably the most complicated and still painful period in the history of Russia. And show this period through the destiny of Admiral Kolchak. According to the Khabensky’s words he was to show not a dictator, but a man in love who has also duties before his country but cannot deny his feelings. That is why "Admiral" though being a historic movie is actually neither about war, nor politics. It is a great and beautiful love story. After "Admiral" I was curious to learn more about the Civil War and the figure of Kolchak. Of course it is studied at school, but in fact what is written in the school textbooks is a total mess of facts and dates. But now the reading is more interesting as I can imagine this distant historic statesmen and thus I get a clearer picture of the Civil War in Siberia. Admiral Kolchak’s life was full of everything one can wish to himself: he discovered new lands in the Arctic Ocean and named them, he knew what it is like to win great battles, he was loved by faithful and brave women, he led enormous armies and gave aspiration to so many people. He was the symbol of honorable struggle. I would say that even dry historic books about Kolchak are as exciting as novels. So his screened biography is also breathtaking. "Admiral" is probably the best modern Russian film.
For love is strong as death...
adelinaforever15 October 2008
But if I am still alive
Counter to destiny
That's only as your love
And memory of you
Ana Timireva
"Your smile that I will never forget, your voice, your hands are the symbol of the highest award for me which can give me life for performance of the greatest aim, military idea, debt and the obligations sent by the severe and unshakable nature of war " These words full of love, emotions and fear to lose his beloved woman were written by Admiral Kolchak to Anna Timireva. She was a married woman with a son, he had wife and son too. Anna was younger than Admiral in 19 years but love does not have borders and they both understood it. He wasn't the handsomest of men and besides he was a soldier and patriot dedicated to the army and to the country. But she was the real princess: young, clever and gorgeous. They seemed to be just ordinary people but their amazing love story and tragic destiny made them legends.
"Admiral" is that type of movies that you watch on one breath and when it ends you don't need to speak with your friends and share your thoughts about the film. It is something extraordinary that you keep deep inside your heart. You are nearly crying as if it was your own life and your sufferings. This is the power of that movie. First of all, you will be impressed with the actors' transformation. Konstantyn Habensky as Admiral Kolchak is exactly the man from that epoch. Fearless, brave and strong person with so many contradictions that finally led him to his death. Habensky has previously worked with Elizaveta Boyarskaya in "Irony of Fate 2" but in this picture they are more natural and real as a duet.
Historical dramas are for sure one of the most hardest genre. The duty of actors is to make audience believe that you are that Man or that Woman from specific century and era. In "Admiral" Elizaaveta Boyarskaya did a fantastic job. She did a hundred times better than she did in "Irony of Fate" Maybe it's because "Irony" was just a sequel of the famous Soviet film. But Anna in "Admiral" is definitely her role that she played with fidelity and grace.
I also want to say few words about the music. The original score is fantastic. And the title song "Anna" which was a poem written by Anna Timireva and dedicated to Kolchak sounds so touching. Just listen to it and you will understand how strong this woman were. Singer Victoria Dayneko performed it perfectly and her voice is amazing.
Admiral was killed in February 7, 1920. Anna Timireva spent most of her life in prisons and camps. She died in 1975. As she said she had been with Admiral only for two years. But she never stopped loving him even after his death.
Counter to destiny
That's only as your love
And memory of you
Ana Timireva
"Your smile that I will never forget, your voice, your hands are the symbol of the highest award for me which can give me life for performance of the greatest aim, military idea, debt and the obligations sent by the severe and unshakable nature of war " These words full of love, emotions and fear to lose his beloved woman were written by Admiral Kolchak to Anna Timireva. She was a married woman with a son, he had wife and son too. Anna was younger than Admiral in 19 years but love does not have borders and they both understood it. He wasn't the handsomest of men and besides he was a soldier and patriot dedicated to the army and to the country. But she was the real princess: young, clever and gorgeous. They seemed to be just ordinary people but their amazing love story and tragic destiny made them legends.
"Admiral" is that type of movies that you watch on one breath and when it ends you don't need to speak with your friends and share your thoughts about the film. It is something extraordinary that you keep deep inside your heart. You are nearly crying as if it was your own life and your sufferings. This is the power of that movie. First of all, you will be impressed with the actors' transformation. Konstantyn Habensky as Admiral Kolchak is exactly the man from that epoch. Fearless, brave and strong person with so many contradictions that finally led him to his death. Habensky has previously worked with Elizaveta Boyarskaya in "Irony of Fate 2" but in this picture they are more natural and real as a duet.
Historical dramas are for sure one of the most hardest genre. The duty of actors is to make audience believe that you are that Man or that Woman from specific century and era. In "Admiral" Elizaaveta Boyarskaya did a fantastic job. She did a hundred times better than she did in "Irony of Fate" Maybe it's because "Irony" was just a sequel of the famous Soviet film. But Anna in "Admiral" is definitely her role that she played with fidelity and grace.
I also want to say few words about the music. The original score is fantastic. And the title song "Anna" which was a poem written by Anna Timireva and dedicated to Kolchak sounds so touching. Just listen to it and you will understand how strong this woman were. Singer Victoria Dayneko performed it perfectly and her voice is amazing.
Admiral was killed in February 7, 1920. Anna Timireva spent most of her life in prisons and camps. She died in 1975. As she said she had been with Admiral only for two years. But she never stopped loving him even after his death.
Terrific movie
tatianadick5 November 2010
It is a very extraordinary and powerful film. I was crying several times during the movie like it was me who was suffering. I was deeply touched inside of my heart after I watched this movie. I highly recommend this movie to everyone!!! Too bad there are not many movies like this one. Our kids are growing watching junkie movies and the we are wondering what is going on with younger generation... This movie will make you think about your duty, priorities, life, faith, and too many other important things we never think about in our lives on the daily basis. This movie is about sacrifice for your country (to the highest possible level), military honor (to the very last blood drop), patriotism, intellect, intelligence, love, faith
It is simply an amazing movie that makes you think, tear, laugh...
the Mediocre film
dd1-720 October 2008
Theme of white movement one of the most interesting and grasping in the history of Russia the XX-th centuries. It is history of the people who have chosen the way, distinct from others. And victims for the ideals. Someone it is valorous, someone it is disgraceful. Kolchak was the leader of white movement and it was actually possible to create a fine film. But, again unfortunately it has not turned out … Well when it will turn out?! Actually we will not stop on historical errors of a film, we will notice that they were, however as well as in many other films.
The main thing that is evident throughout all film is immense PATHOS, is direct to a nausea. The first fighting scene, with the German ship, in the beginning develops impression that we and do not resist to the opponent, at us a heap of the wounded and killed simple sailors. And Kolchak somehow easy goes and observes of it. Such sensation that Kolchak untouchable, also it is necessary to show in a considerable quantity a meat grinder from stupid and worthless Russian sailors. And then Kolchak will show a master class and will damage the enemy ship. Then a scene with passage through mines. There was an impression that if Kolchak has not prayed, we would not pass. And, Germans have forgotten, and in vain, and for it have rigidly paid off.
Now about a love story. To what genius has come to mind to invite this actress Liza Boyarskaya. I certainly understand that her daddy the fine actor, but it not so is often descended. Its game is simply awful. It is a pity that in Russia so cinema clans are strong. Well and so, Liza Boyarskaya such sensation that in first half of film plays the full silly woman. That, a silly smile with glass eyes does not understand even elementary things. In second half of film she repeats «I love you, Alexander Vasilevich» some times for a film, but, apparently, that to her all these recognitions are absolutely indifferent. To it whether it is boring, whether it is opposite, whether simply it would be desirable to smoke.
Khabensky also not so approaches. In general it looks like the shtabs-captain … It speaks about feelings more, but these words are incorporeal and empty. What to us try to show, what an admiral only and did, what prayed?! And still ran from red faster a hare in wood. Probably, he loved one woman of more Russia. And destiny in which he has started to trust has deprived of it, both Russia, and the beloved.
Bezrukov has not badly played. But what it has shown, brave, to nonsense of the general because of which it has ruined himself and Kolchak?! Who really was pleasant so it Kovalchuk. Has perfectly played it is a pity that to it has got so poorly screen time. Almost only its scenes with an admiral have caused in me though any emotions. Thanks.
Unpleasant feeling has left selection and other actors. Literally everyone not in the role. As result — any emotions from game.
As a result once again I will repeat that it is very a pity...
Thanks for attention.
The main thing that is evident throughout all film is immense PATHOS, is direct to a nausea. The first fighting scene, with the German ship, in the beginning develops impression that we and do not resist to the opponent, at us a heap of the wounded and killed simple sailors. And Kolchak somehow easy goes and observes of it. Such sensation that Kolchak untouchable, also it is necessary to show in a considerable quantity a meat grinder from stupid and worthless Russian sailors. And then Kolchak will show a master class and will damage the enemy ship. Then a scene with passage through mines. There was an impression that if Kolchak has not prayed, we would not pass. And, Germans have forgotten, and in vain, and for it have rigidly paid off.
Now about a love story. To what genius has come to mind to invite this actress Liza Boyarskaya. I certainly understand that her daddy the fine actor, but it not so is often descended. Its game is simply awful. It is a pity that in Russia so cinema clans are strong. Well and so, Liza Boyarskaya such sensation that in first half of film plays the full silly woman. That, a silly smile with glass eyes does not understand even elementary things. In second half of film she repeats «I love you, Alexander Vasilevich» some times for a film, but, apparently, that to her all these recognitions are absolutely indifferent. To it whether it is boring, whether it is opposite, whether simply it would be desirable to smoke.
Khabensky also not so approaches. In general it looks like the shtabs-captain … It speaks about feelings more, but these words are incorporeal and empty. What to us try to show, what an admiral only and did, what prayed?! And still ran from red faster a hare in wood. Probably, he loved one woman of more Russia. And destiny in which he has started to trust has deprived of it, both Russia, and the beloved.
Bezrukov has not badly played. But what it has shown, brave, to nonsense of the general because of which it has ruined himself and Kolchak?! Who really was pleasant so it Kovalchuk. Has perfectly played it is a pity that to it has got so poorly screen time. Almost only its scenes with an admiral have caused in me though any emotions. Thanks.
Unpleasant feeling has left selection and other actors. Literally everyone not in the role. As result — any emotions from game.
As a result once again I will repeat that it is very a pity...
Thanks for attention.
Finally a chance to see through the glass darkly
Tgrain12 June 2011
Soviet cinema provided us with a myriad films on the Russian revolution and Civil War. While many were artistically engaging, all of them had one mission - to portray the Soviet cause as just and right.
Admiral finally gives audiences an opportunity to see the other side of the story in a human way, without the heavy handed political approach of its Soviet counterparts. It gives you a taste of a Russia that was destroyed after the Bolsheviks sealed their grip on the country. A respectable budget and modern technology allows this film to portray a realism that even Soviet cinema at its prime couldn't match. Everything, from battle scenes to tea parties is very much alive. At the same time, cheap Hollywood-isms are avoided, so if you're looking for a steamy sex scene you'll be disappointed.
The 124 minute version of this film suffers from being a bit rushed, with the romantic story taking center stage which obscures other deep elements of the story. The expanded version is considerably more filling, especially those who enjoy the historical content and a more laid back pace that allows you to absorb.
Admiral finally gives audiences an opportunity to see the other side of the story in a human way, without the heavy handed political approach of its Soviet counterparts. It gives you a taste of a Russia that was destroyed after the Bolsheviks sealed their grip on the country. A respectable budget and modern technology allows this film to portray a realism that even Soviet cinema at its prime couldn't match. Everything, from battle scenes to tea parties is very much alive. At the same time, cheap Hollywood-isms are avoided, so if you're looking for a steamy sex scene you'll be disappointed.
The 124 minute version of this film suffers from being a bit rushed, with the romantic story taking center stage which obscures other deep elements of the story. The expanded version is considerably more filling, especially those who enjoy the historical content and a more laid back pace that allows you to absorb.
A tragic love story
AFilotti24 May 2009
The film focuses on the love story between Admiral Kolchak and Anna Timiryova, in the context of the tragic events of the Russian revolution and civil war. And rightly so, the main feature is the love story, while history is left to the background.
It also does not focus on the life of Anna Timiryova after Kolchak's death - she has been arrested six times and spent long years in the Gulag. But she always remembered the two tragic years when she had been able to be with her lover.
The lyrics of the theme song are one of Anna Timiryova's poems. Unfortunately a film cannot focus on poetry, but it should be remembered that the Timiryova's poems have been compared the the poetry of Boris Pasternak.
And Boyarskaya really shows that she understood the tragism of Timiryova's fate.
It also does not focus on the life of Anna Timiryova after Kolchak's death - she has been arrested six times and spent long years in the Gulag. But she always remembered the two tragic years when she had been able to be with her lover.
The lyrics of the theme song are one of Anna Timiryova's poems. Unfortunately a film cannot focus on poetry, but it should be remembered that the Timiryova's poems have been compared the the poetry of Boris Pasternak.
And Boyarskaya really shows that she understood the tragism of Timiryova's fate.
Beautiful. Too beautiful
Vincentiu8 October 2011
A hero. And his religion - Russia. A impressive movie, so great, so expansive, so subtle and delicate that any comment is a mistake. The admiral, as new Alexey Nevski and the nasty Bolsheviks, the traitor and the end of beautiful love story. But the real Kolchak is in dark. For be a masterpiece, the film must be for good taste of public. So, the history is only convention. The hero , the elegant lady, few details as bones of a huge story are enough. Therefore, it is difficult to criticize this production. Its strenghts are so numerous that any accusation is ridiculous. The Soviet enthusiasm for great fresco, the Russian way to see the life and the tragedy as atonement are key for images of a world end by an old definition.
Come Back Stalin - All Is Forgiven
robert-64224 October 2010
Oh dear! What a load of rubbish. What could have been an enjoyable historical film charting the fall of the Russian monarchy and the rise of communism ended up as a Latin American styled, melodramatic soap opera. It's a pity they didn't add a bit of comedy then it could have qualified as a romantic comedy drama. The cuts between the protagonist and his mistress were far too many - they halted the development of the story. One moment men are have their limbs blown off and the next shot is of her writing lyrical love letters. Had they cut the romance scenes down by 95% it would have been an excellent historical drama - they certainly had the budget for it.
And finally. The film was also ruined by the constant location pop ups. One moment they tell you they are in Omsk, three minutes later you are in Petrograd and then a minute after you are back in Omsk! I wouldn't mind but all the places looked the same so why bother? I'd like to have thought it was for the non Russian audience but it wasn't! Save your precious life and watch something more interesting.
And finally. The film was also ruined by the constant location pop ups. One moment they tell you they are in Omsk, three minutes later you are in Petrograd and then a minute after you are back in Omsk! I wouldn't mind but all the places looked the same so why bother? I'd like to have thought it was for the non Russian audience but it wasn't! Save your precious life and watch something more interesting.
Correct and opinion.
Daredevil-roso19 October 2008
Just a small correction, the filming of 'Admiral' took place before 'Irony of Fate 2'. So, Khabensky and Boyarskaya duet originally was born during production of 'Admiral'.
Liza is a young actress, but she increases her actor's skills and abilities from film to film. 'Irony...' required another significance of role. And I think, the aim was attained - new heroine became modern, interesting and attractive for up-to-date public.
A lot of excellent actors got only few seconds role in 'Admiral', but they used this time terrifically !
And for summing up, 'Admiral' is a great movie which should be felt deeply and only after that - scrutinized.
Liza is a young actress, but she increases her actor's skills and abilities from film to film. 'Irony...' required another significance of role. And I think, the aim was attained - new heroine became modern, interesting and attractive for up-to-date public.
A lot of excellent actors got only few seconds role in 'Admiral', but they used this time terrifically !
And for summing up, 'Admiral' is a great movie which should be felt deeply and only after that - scrutinized.
movies for the masses
juliahro18 July 2010
This movies seems to me approved by Putin: simple-minded, patriotic, a complete non-thinker. Not that we don't need non-thinkers from time to time, but this movie doesn't even give its actors a chance to act: the best attitude for the man is the heroic brave grin, and for the woman - the pretentious yet vulnerable smile of adoration or resignation.
I get that that time was a time of war and the appraisal of war; but I'm sure Russians are not as conventional and simple-minded as this (they have great writers to prove it - and some directors, too).
Although, I'm sure someone like Putin would prefer them this way. This dough is easier to mold.
I get that that time was a time of war and the appraisal of war; but I'm sure Russians are not as conventional and simple-minded as this (they have great writers to prove it - and some directors, too).
Although, I'm sure someone like Putin would prefer them this way. This dough is easier to mold.
Pure lie
slam1331 July 2013
Kolchak is just another scum. He made his own GULAG and put in concentration camps about 1000000 people. Не killed hundreds of thousands: only in Ekaterinburg region "whites" killed 25000 civils and POWs. One American (from Red cross) described the situation: "I swear to God, I am not exaggerating! ... In Siberia, the horror and death at every step on a scale that would have shocked the most callous heart... ". Now they are trying to make some sort of "hero" out of murderer, traitor and British agent. They are even trying to show, that he can fell in love with somebody and some morons even think, that it is real "stirring story of love, honour, patriotism and heroism". Pure lie!!!
Excellent War movie and love Story. Leaves a lasting impression
Tailgunner194410 December 2016
This is one of the best movies I have watched in years. Not only is it a historical war movie based on actual events, it is also a very captivating love story. It is one of those movies that you keep thinking about long after it has ended. The performance by Konstantin Khabenskiy is exceptional and Oscar-worthy. Had this been an American movie I have no doubt it would have been a Best Picture contender at the Oscars.
Aside from the story and acting by all the actors, the music and sweeping cinematography is quite on point.
When it comes to battle scenes, the last big battle towards the end is one of those that leaves you scratching your head as to what was going through the heads of the Soldiers when their Commanders ordered them to carry out these massive charges straight into machine gun fire. Well-made movie that deserves watching again.
Now, because it is based on actual events, I am about to Wikipedia the heck out of the characters. It is just one of those movies where you connect with all the characters so much that you want to read and know more about the real-life people.
Aside from the story and acting by all the actors, the music and sweeping cinematography is quite on point.
When it comes to battle scenes, the last big battle towards the end is one of those that leaves you scratching your head as to what was going through the heads of the Soldiers when their Commanders ordered them to carry out these massive charges straight into machine gun fire. Well-made movie that deserves watching again.
Now, because it is based on actual events, I am about to Wikipedia the heck out of the characters. It is just one of those movies where you connect with all the characters so much that you want to read and know more about the real-life people.
at first sigh, perfect
Kirpianuscus3 October 2015
romanticism, good acting, wise script, history's respiration, great atmosphere. a film who seems be perfect for a large target. because it has coherence and rhythm and moral questions and Chekhov's universe drops. it is a blockbuster. and that fact could not be a real surprise. for a part of viewers, for who Kolchak is a hero not only for his political position, for the last sacrifice and for the status of lover, but for its impressive career as explorer, the film is only a sketch. for the fans of old films, the meeting with Nikolay Burliav, as the Tsar , is a real surprise. a film about war and love and feelings. about the change of society. and about values. that is all. but the manner used does the difference from many other films with same subject.
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