Arquivo

Filmed in 1978, but banned until 1987, Sokúrov’ first feature was based on the book by Soviet writer Andrej Platonov, himself an artist under censorship in the country. The narrative is set in the twenties, during the post-revolution years, and focuses on Mikita, a solitary man much traumatized by the civil war. The film follows the tortuous paths of his relationship with his wife, a middle-class woman, and the difficulties they are beset with to adapt to the new society established in Russia. The Lonely Voice of Man displays all of the traits of Sokurov’ poetry: non-realistic use of color, variations in projecting speed, and an expressionist sound track.