Director: Pavel Parkhomenko
Starring: Yaroslav Zhalnin, Mikhail Filippov, Olga Ivanova
Running Time: 108 Minutes
Certificate: 12
Synopsis: ‘HOW FAR WOULD YOU GO? In 1961 Yuri Gagarin blasted off from Vostok, Russia to become the first man in space. It was a mission fraught with danger as he rocketed into unknown territory and an uncertain fate. Part of an elite squad of cosmonauts, Gagarin rose through the ranks with his awe-inspiring bravery setting him apart as the best of the best. At last the epic story of this visionary pioneer is brought to the screen in Gagarin, an awe-inspiring story of what can happen when you reach for the stars’.
When the mind wonders into the realms of interstellar space travel and rocket-filled adventure, generally science fiction films are amongst the first thoughts to enter your head. However soon after dreams of Millennium flacons, TARDIS’ and Transformers have been crushed by the cruel vacuum of reality, familiar thoughts of Neil Armstrong are almost guaranteed to enter your brains orbit. Although, it is easily (and commonly) forgotten that Armstrong wasn’t actually the first man in space. No, I’m afraid that that honor went to Russian cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin. Which is why this film is quite special, as the first full length feature to chronicle the journey of the first man to legitimately reach for the stars.
Although some viewers may be put off by the fact that this is a Russian production through and through, the film is actually surprisingly accessible. The reason for this is almost certainly due to the fact that GAGARIN is heavily inspired by the familiar Hollywood productions we all know and love. From the first shot of the narrative the audience will be filled with an air of familiarity and comfort, as the comparisons to ARMAGEDDON and GRAVITY begin to sink in. Having said that, there are also clearly some political motivations to this production that will likely go over the heads of most. However, some eagle eyed viewers looking for some more depth and subtext to their films, will definitely spot the Russian patriotism heavily weaved throughout GAGARIN. With drama and negative publicity for Russia currently in abundance, it’s clear that this film has a dual role to play.
With a run time of just under two hours the film is maybe a little bit too long, however it is difficult not to get swept away in the atmosphere and unbelievably endearing story of GAGARIN (even if it is somewhat cliched). I would even go as far to say that English subtitles are optional when watching GAGARIN, due to the easy, simple and straightforward nature of the narrative. Although some may say that this is a huge detractor for them, I find it comforting that a Russian story can feel so close to home. Again however, this is largely due to the familiarity and comfort that comes with the innate Hollywood aesthetic drenched over the production.
Visually the film is quite beautifully shot and even before the impressive special effects take over, GAGARIN seems to have a wonderful gleam to it that emulates the sort of magic you may find in a Jon Favreau production. Although GAGARIN – FIRST IN SPACE is certainly no masterpiece, the film is easily carried by its unwavering charm and watchability. By the time George Kallis’ gorgeous score is played alongside the rolling credits, you will be left wondering why both the film and Yuri Gagarin himself didn’t get much more recognition.
[usr=4] GAGARIN – FIRST IN SPACE is available on DVD in the UK now!
