hrijpstra

Had low expectations going in based of of TV commercials. Remained sceptical throughout first epsiode. Set wise they've basically scraped together every even vaguely brutalist bit of architecture in a 400km radius around Antwerp, which I kinda like to be honest. Kept me wondering, is this supposed to be the future or an alternative timeline of the past? The acting is nothing to write home about, but the story is pretty fun. It's at least refreshing to see and hear a dystopian story in my native Dutch. It's not particularly original, or innovative, but it's consistent and not just cheap thrills. Someone's clearly put in the effort to match the setting, the visuals and the story without going overboard on any of them. It's kept my attention for half the season so far. Still not amazed, but be sure to give it a try, cause it might just grow on you.

Loved it, as I do with all of Curtis's films.

That being said I was first put off by the lack of narration. Upon further reflection I mostly find Curtis's narration and attempts at sensemaking confounding anyway. This footage mostly doesn't need it.

The dissolution of the Sovjet Union is right at the cusp of that which I recognize from everyday life and that which is completely foreign to my personal experience. This series reflects this back to me perfectly. It is both fascinating and unnerving to watch, like actually being there, not fully understanding where you are or what to do. I suspect the people portrayed must have felt similarly.

If the point is to give an emotional history of the events this series is most certainly the best effort I can imagine. The footage is well chosen and the lack of music makes for a pretty raw emotional imprint.