First things first. Alien. Not that Alien, no salivating monsters, no jump scares, no running about in underwear. Still, it’s definitely in the science fiction category, but a bit softer than you might be expecting. This is an intriguing film, and it does explore some areas that aren’t typically exploited by US producers.
The film is in Russian with English subtitles, and is not so speech heavy for this to be an issue of for any viewer. Indeed, the visuals are striking. Set in the winter, in a small village in Ural, the scenery is coldly beautiful, and most of the film takes place just outside the village proper. A small house, oddly constructed and decorated with cast off bits of recycled materials, is home to Lyosha, a hearing-impaired man, and the older woman he takes care of.
Lyosha’s home decoration would be enough for the locals to consider him strange, but he’s also known for creating large “crop circle” drawings in vegetation and snow. And much of his house is filled with electronics, radio receivers and even antennas he’s hand made from recycled cans. He’s hoping to make contact with someone extraterrestrial. His mother had disappeared when he was young, and the mysterious circumstances of that event were never explained.
Again, the villagers consider him strange, but he is well liked among many and admired for his work and personal ethics. His life takes a turn when a waifish young girl appears waiting at his gate. and enters his life. The mystery deepens when it appears that she may be telepathic.
The filming is relaxed and at times majestic. The camera has a tendency to dwell on simplest things, walking across a bridge or a figure laying down on the top of a snowy hill, to a nice effect. In contrast, the village itself is somewhat old and tawdry. Not to say that it has any undertones of malice or enigma, just to point out a difference in the environments.
As the mystery of the girl’s purpose, and a falsified report against Lyosha that stirs up concern and action from the village, there are scenes that recall the Frankenstein film. But without torches or pitchforks.
Even as an small, independent film, the artists here have worked within limitations to put together a compelling story with some new ideas about what makes one alien. If you’re looking for a nice bit of science fiction during the Cinequest Film Festival, check out Alien.
Visit Cinequest for show times and to buy tickets.
Ric Bretschneider
March 9, 2025
San Jose California