VOLSHEBNIK

The windfall comes just at the right moment for Efim. The somewhat unconventional way of teaching and Roman's annoying, theoretical questions via SMS arouse his curiosity. He forces them to have an unexpected meeting and makes friends with the boy. They are both united by one goal based on differing motivations: the dream of playing the guitar and being able to show them all that he can do it. Efim has the talent and Roman the necessary wherewithal. Roman's aunt Tamara is the only one who regards the friendship between the two with suspicion.

The feature film debut by Mikhail Morskov, who is mainly known for his numerous film scores, has him bringing two socially divergent outsiders together, who are mutually supporting and encouraging one another. The serious and at times poignant story keeps up the suspense until the very end and provides good entertainment not least thanks to the music score. MM