Social Upheaval, Romance, and Russian History

Rating: 8/10 (30 July 2017)

Doctor Zhivago is a 1965 drama film with elements of the romance and historical drama genres. The story follows Dr. Yuri Zhivago, whose parents die when he is a young boy. Zhivago is raised by the Gromeko family and studies to become a doctor. The doctor spends the rest of his life torn between romance, war, poetry, and a desire to have a peaceful life.
Doctor Zhivago is a powerful film that is entertaining throughout its entirety. The acting and writing are amazing and the dialogue between the characters is extremely thoughtful and insightful. It is also nice to see a film that includes such historical events as the Great War and the Russian Revolution from the perspective of Russian characters. The effects of war, anarchy, civil unrest, and collectivism are illustrated very well. With such beautiful scenery and a fantastic plot, you never want to the film to end.
If there are any complaints that could be made of Doctor Zhivago, it is the length of the film. Even though the film is enjoyable, it is almost three and a half hours long. It feels as if you have accomplished something when you finish the film because of the massive amount of time it consumes. I think the movie could have been shortened without hurting the overall story. Also, the ending is extremely underwhelming in my opinion, but I will not give away any details.
Overall, Doctor Zhivago is a great film. Audiences of all tastes will enjoy the beauty, passion, and insight this movie offers. If you have yet to watch this classic film, I recommend it. You will not be disappointed.