doug_park2001
The first 30 minutes or so are very engrossing, but the plot of MOSCOW CHILL often comes near derailment in the next two-thirds. All the same, it ties up very nicely in the end. Some violence, of course, but it wastes no time on prolonged shoot-'em-ups and punch-'em-outs. Great soundtrack and use of scenery. Norman Reedus is quite convincing as genius Robin Hood computer hacker Ray Perso--his whole demeanor is kind of Zuckerbergish, which is fitting. Kseniya Buravskaya gives a particularly splendid performance as Maya, with whom Ray finds true love. Much of the supporting cast--particularly the actor who plays Maya's father--are also worthy-of-mention and do a great deal to carry this unusual film.MOSCOW CHILL may not have the kick that thriller fans want. It also lacks the layers of intrigue that many others expect. However, it has a flavor that's just all its own. This film has real heart with steady, believable humor, which make its lesser qualities forgivable. Though it has neither the scope nor the plot development of KILLER ELITE, the conflict of how Perso wants out but finds it hard to simply walk out of the game reminded me a bit of that film.
kayuga
It was very intriguing watching a new movie produced by the famous Konchalovsky (Runaway Train, Tango and Cash)The first 15 minutes are interesting, then trouble begins: ridiculous dialogs, unreal situations etc... Inconsistent, unrealistic plot made in superficial picture of post-Soviet Russia. It looks like tabloid-quality scenario with same ridiculous "bad" and "good" guys... The main character appears being bored, just trying to fight his sleep throughout most of his appearances. The soundtrack is OK. Movies like Moskva, Gruz 200, Bumer seem to be infinitely more subtle in giving a portrait of the Russian past and of the reality without being naive or politically engaged. Really very disappointing.
Paul Thompson
Really enjoyed this film. The characters and dialogue helped to bring this story to life. I thought it was a love story with an action twist. It was refreshing to watch a protagonist whose journey was fully thought out by the writer. Being able to watch Ray transform from his down and out beginning without getting heavy handed was nice. It helped that Norman Reedus was good in the role. The movie does not fall apart at the end like most films seem to.I wasn't surprised to see that the writer also directed the film. Beautifully crafted with nice cinematography. I recommend this film.
Carson Trent
Totally in grade-able judging by any standard, both action flick-wise and cinematic industry cooperation-wise.Reedus goes to Moscow to join the full Russian cast, well chosen, by the way, to hack into whatever, as it turns out, because at the end all narrative goes berserk in a frenzy attempt to be both entertaining and locally flavored with a political undertone, with a twist of dramatic thrill shoved in the mix.First half watchable...second half both laughable and boring, but still I just had to watch it to the end to be certain it has an ending. I was glad to discover that it does.
AD
