Confession

(Viewed on 01/14): A stylised quasi-documentary where the effect of being trapped in a highly restricted space for extended periods borders on cabin fever; the suffocating confinement is central to its humanism. The Russian title Povinnost ('forced labour') gives an insight into Sokurov's concerns: capturing young bodies in atmospheric low light conditions diligently performing their duties on a mission towards a destination unknown, surrounded by arctic bleakness. It's mournful and moving.