Runtime: 107 hypnotic minutes
Directed by: Andrei Tarkovsky
Starring: Margarita Terekhova, Alla Deminova, Ignat Daniltsev, Oleg Yankovsky, the voice of Arseny Tarkovsky
From: Mosfilm
After a needed day off, I was inspired to finally tackle a movie that hearsay told me was “dense” and “difficult.” Yes, this movie from Andrei Tarkovsky is nonlinear and has an ethereal quality-but the “story” was about the vibes rather than specific plot points, it was not difficult to decipher the points Tarkovsky was trying to make, and just a bit of reading made this unique experience not daunting or something that I should have put off for years. I rate Solaris and Stalker quite highly, so a chance should have been taken much sooner. Alas…
To give a few basics that will help new viewers: the life of Aleksei-a man in his 40’s who is never shown on screen as an adult until we see his right arm during the conclusion-is followed, along with some family members. Interspersed is footage of the Soviets at war; presumably this was to set the mood and establish the time period. Note that elements were taken from Tarkovsky’s life-at least a few plot points, important life events, guilt over past decisions. Furthermore, the director’s wife Larisa and mother Maria had small roles and poems from his poet father Arseny are read throughout by Arseny himself.
In addition, the same actress (Margarita Terekhova) portrayed both Aleksei’s mom and his ex-wife; the Oedipal message is obvious, although I hope that is just a character trait and not a feeling Tarkovsky dealt with personally! Armed with this knowledge, the viewer should also not go into Mirror expecting a traditional plot; instead, focus on the journey as the fragmented memories of a character are examined. Visually and aurally, Mirror was top-notch, a singular achievement.
Writing a review for Mirror, attempting to coalesce my thoughts into coherent words that accurately represent my thoughts concerning this masterpiece: a massive struggle. Instead of spending hours attempting to find the right phrases to describe the feelings, the mood that the picture gave me, I’ll say a few more things. The camera movements, the usage of water, mirrors, wind, and other motifs were all masterly. A few shots and moments will be etched into my memory for ages. What a lyrical look at a flawed character in Aleksei; whether or not this was Andrei Tarkovsky looking into a mirror and presenting a version of himself that is a 100% accurate version of himself-warts and all-is unknown.
Logically, of course a non-traditional picture like this that is lyrical and about emotion rather than a traditional plot/story won’t speak to everyone and they’ll be bumfuzzled by the presentation. Despite my logical mind, the motion picture was a stunning experience that could make you feel the same if viewed at the right time, i.e. you laser-focused and concentrating on the journey.
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