Enthralling

Rating: Null/10 (9 June 2003)

This film starts slowly, but gradually gains momentum and emerges as a riveting docu-drama. Intense acting from the leads, and the entire cast, helps to lend gravity to the story. Claustrophobia is emphasized, perhaps more so than in any other previous submarine film. Kathryn Bigelow (the director) accomplished this by keeping the interior dimensions of the sub as they were in the actual Soviet fleet. By avoiding enlargements of the sets, they had to be resourceful in camera placement, and this leads to interesting camera angles throughout the film.
Overall, this is a wonderful film. Students of history, especially Russian history, should enjoy this immensely. Steer clear if Cold War politics and history bore you.