CAIRO – 13 September 2017: Russian director Boris Khlebinov’s “Arrhythmia” is both a medical and romantic drama, following the ways professional and personal lives intersect in sometimes messy ways.
Poster via IMDB
Oleg, played by Alexander Yatsenko, is an ambulance paramedic known for his excellent work ethic and dedication to his patients. Oleg breaks the rules to help people, even if they refuse it, and this puts him at odds with hospital officials. However, the compassion he feels for those in his care begins to wear out his wife, Katya, played by Irina Gorbacheva, a doctor in training who works at the emergency department. When she begins to feel he doesn’t love her enough, Katya asks for a divorce. Their lives spiral out of control after leading to both personal and professional deterioration.
The film is more than just about a failing marriage; it’s about the immense pressure and stress faced by those who work in the medical professions.
What separates it from a lot of other famed contemporary Russian films is its more universal themes and nebulous setting; the city the story’s set in isn’t mentioned, and there’s no focus on any of Russia’s political troubles. Instead it’s all about the emotions of the characters, going through problems and circumstances that are more broadly understandable.
Set to officially premiere in Russia on September 28, “Arrhythmia” has already won several awards, such as the Best Actor award at both the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival and the Sochi Open Russian Film Festival.
Comments
Leave a Comment