Guardians (2017) Movie Review
Guardians (2017): A Russian Superhero Spectacle
Guardians, directed by Sarik Andreasyan, is a 2017 Russian superhero film that brings a unique twist to the genre. With a cast featuring Sebastien Sisak, Anton Pampushnyy, Sanzhar Madiyev, and Alina Lanina, the film introduces audiences to a team of Soviet-era superheroes who are reactivated to defend their country against a new threat. Known as “Zashchitniki” in Russian, Guardians offers a fresh take on the superhero narrative with its distinct cultural backdrop and imaginative character designs.
Plot Summary
Set during the Cold War, the film follows the secret organization “Patriot,” which creates a team of superhumans to protect the Soviet Union. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, these heroes go into hiding. Decades later, a mad scientist named August Kuratov (Stanislav Shirin) emerges with a plan to take over Moscow using his own army of clones and advanced technology. In response, Major Elena Larina (Valeriya Shkirando) is tasked with reassembling the disbanded team of heroes.
The team, consisting of Arsus (Anton Pampushnyy), a man who can transform into a bear; Khan (Sanzhar Madiyev), a martial artist with super speed; Ler (Sebastien Sisak), who can manipulate earth and stone; and Xenia (Alina Lanina), a woman with invisibility and water manipulation abilities, must come together to stop Kuratov and save their country.
Characters and Performances
Sebastien Sisak as Ler: Sisak’s portrayal of Ler, the stoic and powerful geokinetic, brings a sense of gravitas to the team. His character’s ability to control earth and stone is visually impressive and adds a unique element to the superhero ensemble.
Anton Pampushnyy as Arsus: Pampushnyy delivers a memorable performance as Arsus, a character who can transform into a bear. His struggle to control his powers and maintain his humanity adds depth to the otherwise action-driven narrative.
Sanzhar Madiyev as Khan: Madiyev’s Khan is a charismatic and agile fighter with super speed. His martial arts skills and quick reflexes make for some of the film’s most exciting action sequences.
Alina Lanina as Xenia: Lanina’s Xenia, with her abilities of invisibility and water manipulation, provides a balance of strength and vulnerability. Her character’s backstory and motivations are explored, adding emotional resonance to her role.
Stanislav Shirin as August Kuratov: Shirin’s portrayal of the villainous Kuratov is suitably menacing. His character’s intelligence and ruthlessness make him a formidable adversary for the Guardians.
Direction and Cinematography
Sarik Andreasyan’s direction focuses on delivering a visually engaging superhero spectacle. The film’s pacing is fast, with a clear emphasis on action and special effects. Cinematographer Maksim Osadchy-Korytkovsky captures the grandeur of Moscow and the epic scale of the battles, utilizing dynamic camera angles and CGI to create a visually stunning experience.
The film’s special effects, though occasionally inconsistent, provide many memorable moments, particularly in showcasing the unique abilities of each hero. The transformation scenes, fight sequences, and large-scale destruction are highlights that keep the audience entertained.
Themes and Analysis
Guardians explores themes of identity, teamwork, and sacrifice. Each member of the team grapples with their unique powers and the responsibility that comes with them. The film also delves into the idea of unity and collaboration, emphasizing that the strength of the team lies in their ability to work together despite their differences.
The film’s setting in post-Soviet Russia adds an interesting cultural dimension, exploring the legacy of the Soviet era and the impact of historical events on the present. This backdrop provides a fresh context for the superhero genre, differentiating Guardians from its Western counterparts.
Streaming Services and Availability
For viewers in America, Guardians is available on several streaming platforms. You can watch the film on:
Amazon Prime Video: Available for streaming with a subscription or for rental/purchase.
Apple TV: Available for rental/purchase.
Google Play Movies & TV: Available for rental/purchase.
Vudu: Available for rental/purchase.
Tubi: Available for free with ads.
Final Verdict
Guardians is an ambitious and entertaining entry in the superhero genre, offering a unique perspective with its Russian cultural influences and distinctive characters. While the film may not rival Hollywood blockbusters in terms of polish and budget, it succeeds in delivering an action-packed, visually engaging experience that stands out for its originality.
In conclusion, Guardians is worth watching for fans of superhero movies who are looking for something different. Its combination of imaginative powers, fast-paced action, and cultural depth make it an intriguing addition to the genre. So, grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the high-octane adventure that is Guardians.
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