Siberia (2018) Movie Review
Introduction
“Siberia,” directed by Matthew Ross, is a 2018 romantic crime thriller that stars Keanu Reeves as Lucas Hill, an American diamond trader who ventures to Russia to complete a deal. As his partner goes missing, Lucas finds himself embroiled in both a dangerous quest to retrieve his diamonds and a passionate affair with a local woman named Katya, played by Ana Ularu. The film offers an intriguing premise but struggles with its execution, leaving audiences with mixed feelings.
Plot and Characters
Lucas Hill’s journey takes him deep into the Siberian wilderness in search of his missing partner and the valuable blue diamonds essential to his deal with the dangerous Boris Volkov (Pasha D. Lychnikoff). Amidst this high-stakes search, Lucas meets Katya, a café owner with whom he begins a tumultuous affair. The narrative attempts to balance the tension of the crime world with the intensity of a romantic subplot, but often falters in giving either storyline the depth it needs.
Keanu Reeves, known for his action-packed roles in films like “John Wick,” steps into a more subdued character with Lucas Hill. His performance, while competent, does not fully capture the complexities of the character. Ana Ularu, on the other hand, delivers a solid performance despite the limited development of her character. Molly Ringwald makes a brief appearance as Lucas’s wife back in America, adding little to the overall plot.
Cinematography and Setting
The film is visually striking, making good use of its locations, from the bustling streets of St. Petersburg to the desolate, snow-covered landscapes of Siberia. The cinematography, handled with a careful eye, enhances the bleak and foreboding atmosphere of the narrative. However, while the settings are captivating, the film’s pacing and narrative structure undermine its visual appeal.
Themes and Execution
“Siberia” tries to delve into themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the dangerous allure of forbidden love. The juxtaposition of Lucas’s dangerous mission with his romantic entanglement aims to create a layered narrative but ends up muddled and directionless. The dialogue and interactions, especially the infamous ten-minute conversation about blow jobs, detract from the tension and diminish the film’s overall impact.
The film’s attempt to explore the diamond trade’s intricacies is one of its more compelling aspects. Scenes detailing the authentication process of the diamonds add a layer of authenticity and interest. Unfortunately, these moments are few and far between, overshadowed by the less engaging elements of the plot.
Critical Reception
“Siberia” has garnered largely negative reviews for its disjointed narrative and lackluster character development. Critics have pointed out that the film fails to capitalize on its potential, with a story that meanders and fails to engage. The performances, though earnest, are not enough to elevate the film above its shortcomings. The film’s pacing, described as moving at a “snail’s pace,” further detracts from its overall effectiveness.
Streaming Availability
For viewers in the United States, “Siberia” is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. It can also be rented or purchased through platforms such as Google Play, YouTube, Vudu, and iTunes. This availability ensures that those curious about the film can easily access it despite its mixed reviews.
Conclusion
“Siberia” is a film that promises much but delivers little. Its compelling premise and strong performances by Keanu Reeves and Ana Ularu are let down by a convoluted narrative and poor pacing. While the film does offer moments of intrigue, particularly in its depiction of the diamond trade, it ultimately fails to leave a lasting impression. For those looking to experience “Siberia,” the film is readily available on several streaming platforms.
