"9-tas zingsnis" (9th Step) marks a refreshing breath of fresh air for Lithuanian cinema, especially when contrasted with most other Lithuanian films. While other Lithuanian movies often suffer from slow pace and prolonged dwelling scenes, "9th Step" stands out as an exception. The film adeptly tackles the challenging subject of alcoholism, maintaining an engaging pace throughout. Even during prolonged scenes, the presence of music and other sounds keeps the narrative moving smoothly.
Cinematographically, the film offers a pleasing visual experience, albeit with occasional moments of camera wobbling that slightly detract from the overall quality. Subtle artificial blurring effects add depth to the characters' thought processes, drawing viewers deeper into their world.
The film's treatment of the critical issue of alcoholism is commendable. It effectively conveys its message without resorting to heavy-handedness, allowing viewers to reflect on the topic in a thought-provoking manner.
Despite the presence of non-Lithuanian words in the dialogues, they feel natural and unforced, a testament to the scriptwriting and delivery. The acting, while generally competent, exhibits minor flaws in a few instances.
However, the film's main shortcoming lies in its character development. The mother's appearance is fleeting, and the yoga instructor girlfriend Diana's abrupt departure lacks a convincing reason or explanation. These underdeveloped characters leave a gap in the narrative.
In conclusion, "9-tas zingsnis" (9th Step) is a serious and enjoyable addition to Lithuanian cinema that maintains a balanced pace. While it grapples with minor imperfections, it manages to deliver its important message about dealing with alcoholism effectively, making it a valuable contribution to Lithuanian cinema.
