Tangerines (2013) Movie Review: A Thoughtful and Poignant War Drama
Tangerines (Mandariinid), directed by Zaza Urushadze and released in 2013, is an Estonian war drama that offers a moving exploration of conflict, humanity, and reconciliation. Set against the backdrop of the 1990s War in Abkhazia, the film stands out for its powerful storytelling, strong performances, and reflective examination of the impact of war on individuals.
Plot Overview
Set in a war-torn region of Abkhazia during the 1990s, Tangerines follows **Ivo (played by Lembit Ulfsak), an elderly Estonian farmer who remains in the area to harvest his tangerine crop despite the ongoing conflict. Ivo’s life is disrupted when two opposing soldiers, **Ahmed (played by Giorgi Nakashidze), a Chechen mercenary, and **Niko (played by Mikheil Meskhi), a Georgian fighter, are brought to his home after being wounded in battle.
As Ivo tends to the soldiers, he becomes an unexpected mediator between them, trying to ease their suffering and foster understanding despite their differences. The film delves into the evolving relationships between the characters, exploring themes of humanity and the senselessness of war.
Zaza Urushadze’s Direction
Zaza Urushadze’s direction in Tangerines is marked by its subtlety and emotional depth. Urushadze creates a contemplative and intimate atmosphere, focusing on the personal and emotional aspects of the characters’ interactions. The film’s pacing and visual style contribute to its reflective and poignant tone.
Urushadze’s ability to blend the personal with the political ensures that the film remains engaging and thought-provoking. His direction captures the quiet intensity of the characters’ experiences, providing a nuanced portrayal of the impact of war on individuals.
Performances
The performances in Tangerines are central to its success:
- Lembit Ulfsak as Ivo: Ulfsak delivers a deeply compassionate and nuanced portrayal of Ivo, capturing the character’s resilience and humanity. His performance provides a strong emotional core to the film, making Ivo’s journey both moving and relatable.
- Giorgi Nakashidze as Ahmed: Nakashidze’s portrayal of Ahmed adds complexity to the character, showcasing his internal struggle and the impact of the conflict on his life.
- Mikheil Meskhi as Niko: Meskhi’s performance as Niko highlights the character’s conflicted emotions and the human cost of the war, adding depth to the film’s exploration of reconciliation and understanding.
Themes and Impact
Tangerines explores themes of conflict, humanity, and reconciliation. The film’s focus on the personal experiences of its characters offers a unique perspective on the broader impact of war. By highlighting the relationships between the soldiers and their shared humanity, the film provides a poignant commentary on the futility of violence and the possibility of understanding and forgiveness.
The film’s impact lies in its ability to present a thoughtful and introspective look at war, emphasizing the personal connections that can bridge divides even in the most challenging circumstances.
Reception and Legacy
Tangerines received critical acclaim for its thoughtful storytelling, strong performances, and emotional depth. The film was praised for its ability to address complex themes with sensitivity and insight. It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, further underscoring its impact and significance.
The film’s success has contributed to its reputation as a powerful and reflective entry in the genre of war dramas, offering a compelling and humanistic perspective on conflict.
Streaming and Rental/Purchase Options
For those interested in watching Tangerines, here are some options:
- Streaming Services: The film may be available for streaming on platforms such as Amazon Prime Video or other services with a focus on international films.
- Rental/Purchase: Tangerines can also be rented or purchased on popular platforms like Amazon Video, iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu. Rental prices typically range from $2.99 to $4.99, while purchase prices range from $9.99 to $14.99, depending on the platform and video quality.
Conclusion
Tangerines is a poignant and thought-provoking war drama that offers a moving exploration of conflict and humanity. Directed by Zaza Urushadze and featuring strong performances from Lembit Ulfsak, Giorgi Nakashidze, and Mikheil Meskhi, the film provides a reflective and compelling look at the impact of war on individuals and the possibility of reconciliation.
