Kilometer 123,5
Kilometer 123,5

Movie spotlight

Kilometer 123,5

1994
Movie
11 min
German

A cheerless petrol station buffet. A woman creates for herself her own dream world, far away. A stranger only wants some petrol.

Insights

IMDb7.1/10
Director: Alexei BalabanovGenres: Drama, Crime

Plot Summary

Set against the grim backdrop of post-Soviet Russia, the film follows a disillusioned former soldier returning home. He finds himself entangled in the burgeoning criminal underworld, attempting to navigate a landscape rife with corruption, violence, and moral decay. His journey becomes a desperate struggle for survival and a search for meaning in a society irrevocably changed.

Critical Reception

The film was met with a mixed but generally positive reception, particularly noted for its stark portrayal of post-Soviet Russia and its unflinching depiction of societal collapse. Critics praised its raw atmosphere and thematic depth, though some found its bleakness overwhelming.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its authentic and gritty depiction of a nation in transition.

  • The film's bleak realism and intense atmosphere were highlighted as significant strengths.

  • Some reviews noted the challenging and often disturbing subject matter.

Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this film is not widely available.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for the Golden Ram at the Russian Guild of Film Critics Awards.

Fun Fact

Alexei Balabanov, the director, was known for his distinctive, often controversial, style and frequently explored themes of Russian identity and societal issues in his films.

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