Despite having slight issues with an overlong runtime and a narrative that downshifts in the second half, “Leviathan” manages to power through with a compelling story and a beautifully-crafted look.
http://www.thebluspot.com/single-post/2015/05/15/Leviathan-A-Compelling-and-BeautifullyCrafted-Journey-Bluray
I agree. Amazing, beautiful film. It watches like a Russian novel reads. Great accomplishment, I hope the writing/direction/production team keep making movies.
My only criticism is similar; ponderously long. But I think the length is important. If it had just an hour and a half run time the movie would have a completely different feel.
Crushing, but human. It may be a downer but it is not without a lesson and hope.
An interesting film juxtaposition that happened by accident; I watched 'Hell or High Water' and 'Leviathan' almost back to back. They're both absurdly similar - two brothers versus a larger institution set against a rural backdrop - but Leviathan just blows Hell or High water out of the water. Hell or High Water isn't terrible, but it is not quite the same level of art Leviathan achieves.