Shadows of Our Forgotten Ancestors

"As chaotic as The Colour of Pomegranates is formalized," Shadows of Our Forgotten Ancestors is no less stimulating. Those who are used to a linear plot and comfortably stereotyped characters may be shocked when these are replaced by imagination and creativity, but perseverance in overcoming the initial confusion wil be amply rewarded by the vibrancy of Paradjanov's images and the power of his sometimes esoteric visual effects.

Considered by the authorities a "safe" director prior to this film, Ukrainian based Paradjanov's non-conformist creation was the precedent for dissident works by other Soviet directors, such as Tarkovsky's Andrei Rublev. Where that film mirrored painter Rublev's art in its presentation, this one echoes "forgotten ancestors" in that vital representation of "the people", the folk ballad. Folk ballads make up the soundtrack, but the film's style and camerawork also attempt to capture the folk ballad's rhythm visually, if that is possible.

Sometimes harshly or even crudely beautiful rather than nostalgically pretty, Shadows... is a challenging and sometimes difficult film, not an easy-watching Hollywood-ised churn-out. Some viewers may find it too different to properly appreciate, but for those who can adjust, or who are familiar with this style of cinema, there is an original and stimulating treat in store.

Review by Iain Lang
Taken from EUFS Programme 1994-95