Destination Moscow

Running time: 80 mins

"My name is Vassi. I am an actor. And an idealist."

Jo Strømgren and Runar Hodne's Destination Moscow is a lopsided view of the last decade of the Soviet Union, as seen through the eyes of an incorrigible idealist from the provinces. It is a road movie in tribute to the deeds of fumbling heroes and the charm of believing in the impossible.

Life is not smooth sailing for Vassi. Between performing plays to meager audiences and helping his shady brother smuggle goods, his dreams of conquering the legendary theatres of Moscow seem more remote than ever.

Without ever giving up, however, he and his ragtag troupe of actors lumber from gig to gig, dealing with everything from mute performers to rabid immigrant officers. Tired of waiting for their big break, they decide to risk everything for one shot at stardom. But will their journey lead to the famous Pushkin Moscow Theatre or back to the muddy provinces?

Reminiscent of the deadpan comedies of Aki Kaurismaki (The Man Without a Past), Destination Moscow is a sharp, bittersweet look at talented dreamers and their elusive destinies. Without sacrificing a knack for human comedy, it takes a loving look at just how far artists will go for their art.

Fernando F. Croce

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