With its unique blend of Kung-Fu, heavy metal and orthodox Christianity, this tale brings to life a reality that is strikingly different from the official state doctrine of the Soviet Union. The use of stop-motion animation creates comic effects, such as flying monks or the cartoonish winking of the characters. This creative approach creates a sense of Brechtian alienation on the one hand, while on the other hand encouraging the audience to enjoy the absurdly humorous scenes on screen. The film focuses on Rafael, played by Ursel Tilk, a young man who, after a nightly Kung Fu attack by Chinese invaders, decides to learn the martial art himself. Ironically, his path leads him behind the thick walls of an Orthodox monastery, where he is initiated into the secrets of Kung Fu by dissident monks, many of whom were imprisoned by Soviet authorities. This cultural and stylistic clash leads to a surreal and comical experience that runs throughout the film. THE INVISIBLE FIGHT celebrated its world premiere at the Locarno Film Festival and wowed audiences with its original fusion of genres and styles. Sarnet's latest work skillfully plays with elements of the absurd and offers a humorous yet thoughtful reflection on Soviet realities that can be enjoyed for its political message or simply as entertaining cinema. The film was praised for its creativity and innovative approach in the festival's international competition and continues Sarnet's tradition of telling compelling and visually unique stories that both entertain and inspire reflection in the viewer.
A crazy coming-of-age story in which Orthodox monks teach kung fu in the Soviet Union.
With its unique blend of Kung-Fu, heavy metal and orthodox Christianity, this tale brings to life a reality that is strikingly different from the official state doctrine of the Soviet Union. The use of stop-motion animation creates comic effects, such as flying monks or the cartoonish winking of the characters. This creative approach creates a sense of Brechtian alienation on the one hand, while on the other hand encouraging the audience to enjoy the absurdly humorous scenes on screen.
The film focuses on Rafael, played by Ursel Tilk, a young man who, after a nightly Kung Fu attack by Chinese invaders, decides to learn the martial art himself. Ironically, his path leads him behind the thick walls of an Orthodox monastery, where he is initiated into the secrets of Kung Fu by dissident monks, many of whom were imprisoned by Soviet authorities. This cultural and stylistic clash leads to a surreal and comical experience that runs throughout the film.
THE INVISIBLE FIGHT celebrated its world premiere at the Locarno Film Festival and wowed audiences with its original fusion of genres and styles. Sarnet's latest work skillfully plays with elements of the absurd and offers a humorous yet thoughtful reflection on Soviet realities that can be enjoyed for its political message or simply as entertaining cinema. The film was praised for its creativity and innovative approach in the festival's international competition and continues Sarnet's tradition of telling compelling and visually unique stories that both entertain and inspire reflection in the viewer.