The Devil of Kreuzberg

Just caught an early screening of Russian independent Alexander Bakshaev's The Devil Of Kreuzberg; which merges Bakshaev's love for European horror and avant drama. It is also his longest running film next to his earlier statement on cinema ''Naked Trip''. The overall mood of the film is one of dream-logic territory with it's subtle touches of odd humour and surrealism. The straight forward story is paced steadily in a series of engaging set pieces and moments of flourishing beauty, along with moments of padding which actually works in it's favour. His characters seem suitably detached and are kept vague which enhances it's logically twisted tone and doesn't compromise the nature of the fantasy, but lead Suleyman Yuceer stands out as hit-man Kurt who is tasked with murdering his best friend's succubus girlfriend. Bakshaev has made a highly enjoyable marriage of art and trash here and I hope it reaches a wider audience in future screenings.