Siberian Education (2013) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
“Siberian Education,” also known as “Educazione Siberiana,” is a 2013 crime drama directed by Gabriele Salvatores. Based on the controversial novel by Nicolai Lilin, the film explores the harsh realities of life within a tightly-knit criminal community in the post-Soviet Union era. Set in a world where violence and honor are inextricably linked, “Siberian Education” delves into the upbringing of young men in a Siberian gang, examining the codes and traditions that govern their lives. In this review, we will explore the film’s narrative, performances, and thematic depth, while also providing information on where you can stream “Siberian Education” online.
Plot Overview
The story is set in Transnistria, a breakaway state from Moldova, where a Siberian community lives according to its own strict code of conduct. The film follows the lives of two childhood friends, Kolima (Arnas Fedaravicius) and Gagarin (Vilius Tumalavicius), who are raised in this world of crime and honor. Under the guidance of their grandfather Kuzja (John Malkovich), a respected leader in the community, the boys learn the ways of the “honest criminal,” a term that paradoxically combines crime with a rigid moral code.
As they grow older, the boys’ paths begin to diverge. Kolima remains loyal to the traditions of his people, while Gagarin starts to question and eventually reject the values he was taught. Their friendship is tested as they confront the brutal realities of their world, where betrayal, violence, and loyalty collide in tragic ways.
Movie Analysis
Direction and Cinematography
Gabriele Salvatores, an Oscar-winning director known for his film “Mediterraneo,” brings a gritty yet poetic touch to “Siberian Education.” The film’s visual style captures the bleakness of the Transnistrian landscape, reflecting the harsh lives of its characters. Salvatores uses a mix of muted tones and stark contrasts to depict the brutality and beauty of the world he portrays. The cinematography by Italo Petriccione is both immersive and evocative, drawing the audience into the raw and unforgiving environment where the story unfolds.
The film’s pacing is deliberate, allowing the audience to fully absorb the complexities of the characters and the moral ambiguities they face. Salvatores focuses on the small details that define the community’s way of life, from the intricate tattoos that symbolize their identity to the rituals that bind them together.
Performance
The performances in “Siberian Education” are anchored by John Malkovich, who delivers a powerful and restrained portrayal of Kuzja, the wise yet ruthless elder. Malkovich’s presence adds gravitas to the film, and his character serves as the moral compass for the young protagonists, even as his teachings lead them down a dark path.
Arnas Fedaravicius and Vilius Tumalavicius, as Kolima and Gagarin respectively, provide strong performances that capture the innocence and eventual disillusionment of youth. Fedaravicius portrays Kolima with a quiet intensity, embodying a character who is torn between loyalty to his upbringing and the harsh realities he faces. Tumalavicius, on the other hand, brings a rebellious energy to Gagarin, whose questioning of tradition leads him into conflict with his past.
The supporting cast, including Eleanor Tomlinson as Xenya, a tragic figure in the boys’ lives, adds emotional depth to the story. The relationships between the characters are complex and layered, reflecting the intricate social dynamics of the community.
Themes and Symbolism
“Siberian Education” is a film steeped in themes of loyalty, identity, and the clash between tradition and modernity. The concept of the “honest criminal” lies at the heart of the story, exploring the paradoxical notion that even within a criminal world, there are codes of honor and rules that must be followed. This theme is embodied in the character of Kolima, who struggles to reconcile the violent teachings of his upbringing with his desire for a different life.
The film also delves into the impact of environment and upbringing on identity. The boys are products of their harsh surroundings, and their moral compass is shaped by the community’s rigid codes. As they grow older, the tension between their inherited values and the changing world around them becomes a central conflict, leading to inevitable tragedy.
Symbolism plays a significant role in the film, particularly through the use of tattoos, which serve as visual representations of the characters’ histories and beliefs. These tattoos are more than just body art; they are markers of identity, loyalty, and the unbreakable ties to their community.
Cinematic Brilliance
“Siberian Education” stands out for its unflinching portrayal of a world where violence and tradition are intertwined. Salvatores does not shy away from depicting the brutality of the characters’ lives, but he also finds moments of beauty and humanity within their story. The film’s atmospheric score by Mauro Pagani complements the visuals, enhancing the emotional impact of the narrative.
The film’s structure, which alternates between the boys’ childhood and their adult lives, effectively builds tension and deepens the audience’s understanding of their motivations. The narrative is both a coming-of-age story and a meditation on the loss of innocence, as Kolima and Gagarin’s friendship is tested by the harsh realities they face.
Where to Watch “Siberian Education” Online
If you’re intrigued by this gripping tale of crime and tradition, “Siberian Education” is available on several streaming platforms, particularly in the United States.
Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video: “Siberian Education” is available for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. This platform offers both HD and SD options for viewers who prefer to stream on demand or own a digital copy.
- Apple TV: The film can be rented or purchased on Apple TV, providing high-quality streaming options and accessibility on various devices.
- Google Play Movies & TV: “Siberian Education” is available on Google Play Movies & TV, allowing viewers to rent or buy the film and watch it on a wide range of devices.
- Vudu: Vudu offers both rental and purchase options for “Siberian Education,” with the potential for accessing additional features like subtitles and bonus content.
- YouTube Movies: The film is available for rent or purchase directly on YouTube, making it accessible on any device that supports the platform.
Conclusion
“Siberian Education” (2013) is a dark and compelling film that explores the complex interplay of tradition, loyalty, and violence within a criminal community. Directed by Gabriele Salvatores and featuring a standout performance by John Malkovich, the film offers a gritty and poignant look at a world governed by its own rules and codes. The film’s exploration of identity and the consequences of a life shaped by violence resonates long after the credits roll.
With several streaming options available, you can easily watch “Siberian Education” and immerse yourself in this intense and thought-provoking story. Whether you’re drawn to the film for its exploration of moral ambiguity, its atmospheric cinematography, or its powerful performances, “Siberian Education” delivers a cinematic experience that is both challenging and rewarding.
