There are many reasons why I saw Captain Grant's Children in the first place. Jules Verne's book has a wonderful timeless story; knowing that Aleksandr Ptushko- director of some of the most beautiful Soviet films I know of-; and that I have become very fond of Soviet/Russian cinema. Captain Grant's Children was a gem from start to finish, one of my favourite Soviet films so far easily. Even though it is deserving of a better transfer(having seen the entire movie on Youtube today, if you type in its Russian title you'll find it providing that it stays up), it is lovingly rendered in scenery, lighting and costumes, the black and white looks pretty still and the photography has an understated sweep to it(very Ptushko-style). I agree that the music alone is what makes Captain Grant's Children worth the watch, there are many other things too but the music really stood out. The overture is a beautiful and lovingly orchestrated piece, while the accompanying music underlines the storytelling sensitively and the songs are catchy and unmistakably Soviet(I can't get O Winds of Travel out of my mind and in a good way). The story is very close in spirit and detail to the book and has all its impact. It makes you very happy inside, teaches good morals, the more romantic elements are touching, the adventurous ones rouse and there is lots of heart. The characters are as colourful as you'd expect, especially Paganel, and the acting helps make each character both memorable and recognisable. Nikolai Cherkasov gets top honours in a turn that is funny, moving and authoritative. In conclusion, a real Soviet gem and one of the easiest 10/10s I've given recently. Bethany Cox
Review of Capt. Grant's Family
