Lajkó - Cigány az ürben

If you are familiar with the Hungarian cinematography of the last decade, "Lajko" is not a surprise. It is not a dissapointment, too. It seems a not very subtle revenge against recent history, ironic perspective about Soviet space program, a not bad critic against racism and a good example of use of magic realism and absurd literature, amusing and vulgar but real nice. So, far be a revelation, it is a decent and not bad crafted comedy. My only reserve for Brejnev, a better option can be more reasonable

I said one hour, because I haven't finished watching this. I usually finish watching movies, but in this case I couldn't. Felt like torture. The gags in this comedy are either cheap, lame, cliché or simply not funny at all. The production is good though, the idea had a potential, but the overall execution made this a pure time waster without any value. Do yourself a favor and skip this one.

Lajko - Cigany az urben, directed by Balazs Lengyel, is a charming and creative film that mixes comedy, drama, and sci-fi in a really fun way. Set in the 1950s during the Soviet space race, it tells the story of a young Roma guy named Lajko who dreams of being an astronaut. The unique concept and its execution really grab your attention, while also diving into themes of identity, culture, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity and discrimination.

What makes this film stand out is how it balances humor with serious social issues. Lengyel's direction is both engaging and insightful, allowing the characters to shine while tackling the historical challenges faced by the Roma community across Eastern Europe. The performances are top-notch, especially from the lead actor, who brings a relatable charm to Lajko, making his dreams and struggles hit home for the audience.

The cinematography captures the vibe of the time beautifully, and the imaginative scenes of space travel add a playful element that enhances the viewing experience. Plus, the soundtrack, which features elements of traditional Roma music, really adds depth to the story, creating a rich atmosphere.

Overall, it's a heartwarming and enjoyable film that gives a fresh take on culture and ambition. It highlights the power of dreams and the significance of embracing one's roots. I really appreciated the humor throughout!