Movie Review
With a solid comedy streak, a few familiar plot beats, and some likable characters, this Russian thriller is one of the biggest surprises of the year. It's certainly not without its issues, but it's a solid flick for what it is.
Adapted from the comics developed by BUBBLE studio, Major Grom: Plague Doctor is a two-hour revenge mission. There are some nice little twists, believable motivations for both sides, and absolutely gorgeous camerawork that helps make this engaging. The result is a film that lays the groundwork for a potential series to watch, staying tonally on point throughout the picture.
Similarities
There are also many similarities to Batman, and the film seems to be aware of that. At one point, the Plague Doctor even references a flat-headed crusader.
Admittedly, Plague Doctor is relatively cliche and the story is actually quite simple. Over 120 minutes long, the film begins with a breathtaking chase through the streets of St. Petersburg, Russia. It's a slick, well-rehearsed segment that immediately introduces us to our main protagonist, Police Major Igor Grom.
Although known to be heavy-handed in his methods and cause considerable damage to the entire city, Grom is an integral part of the police force. But all that changes when a masked man dressed as a plague doctor shows up. Imaginatively calling himself a plague doctor, he decides to attack the crooked judicial system.
But instead of going after scoundrels and thieves, the plague doctor focuses on those in the upper echelons of society. Untouchables who avoid punishment in court. Those who have enough power to buy themselves out of trouble.
With the police powerless and everyday priests starting to rebel against the established order, Igor is forced to fight against his brave sidekick and police newcomer Dima Dubin.
In doing so, it soon becomes clear that the big men behind the Zmeste social network may be in close contact with the plague doctor. But who is the plague doctor? And will our daring misfits save the day?
Long Story
While some may argue that the story is a bit long and could have dragged a bit, the overtime helps flesh out both the protagonists and antagonists. Despite how twisted his motivations are, the Plague Doctor makes a lot of sense. There are some tough ideas about the judicial system here, and as we know, the best villains are the ones with the most believable motives.
Going back to superhero movies in general, Thanos is mentioned for a reason. He wanted to kill 50% of the population to save the universe from overpopulation. Of course, it's a scary thing to suggest, but it's understandable from her point of view.
Likewise, Doctor Doom's entire drive in Fantastic Four is that he's seen every future on Earth, and the only future he succeeds in is in his head. Comparing them to endless megalomaniacs who want to destroy the world "just because", it's nice to see Major Grom: The Plague Doctor buck the trend and give his antagonist some solid characterization to work with.
Similarities With Comic Books
There are a number of similarities to various comic book movies though, and while watching them, you'll definitely get a sense of deja vu when all these different references pop up.
Along with its solid characterization, the film also features absolutely gorgeous camerawork. There are some nice rotating shots, neat montages, and plenty of well-rehearsed action sequences that really lend themselves to this feeling of a big budget picture. Considering its £6.2 million budget, the film certainly pulls out all the stops.
Major Grom: The Plague Doctor is very bold, but he also dabbles in comedy. Of course, humor is subjective, so it might not be your cup of tea. There's an early jam that covers the title credits and a lot of dry and jam-packed moments late on that caught this reviewer's attention.
It's not perfect, and not all jokes are spot on, but the decision to lighten up part of the picture is definitely a nice one.
Final Verdict
In an endless stream of superhero movies featuring flamboyant, megalomaniacal villains, Major Grom: The Plague Doctor tries to be a little different. This isn't a typical superhero movie, instead leaning towards the grittiness of something like Kick Ass. Coupled with a more Batman-esque plot with film delivery and grit, this Russian picture manages to carve out a slice of its own superhero pie.
If you can go in with an open mind and go for the slower moments, this Russian picture might surprise you with its charm and action.