On an isolated island in northern Russia, the postman navigates his speedboat across the lake — the only link between villagers and the outside world. Though civilization lies just across the water, the villagers maintain a simple, self-sufficient life. There are no government offices or social institutions in the village. Every day, aside from delivering mail, the postman is also responsible for purchasing essential supplies for the villagers. He cares for a lonely, alcoholic old man and secretly loves Irina, a single mother. But Irina decides to move to the city for her son’s future, and when the postman’s boat motor is stolen, the meaning of his life is completely shattered.
The White Nights of the Postman offers a glimpse into Russia’s lake-and-mountain scenery and village landscapes. (Image provided by Tianma Xingkong)
This film features a large cast of non-professional actors, with a storyline rooted in the real lives of Russian islanders. In addition, the director incorporates many surreal elements — the frequent appearances of Russian Blue cats blur the line between reality and dreams, while a slowly ascending rocket creates a sci-fi atmosphere. The magnificent lakes and idyllic village scenes of Russia are filled with poetic charm. The film, hailed as the biggest surprise at the last Venice Film Festival, won the Best Director award. Russian master Konchalovsky, who received the honor, also called it his most liberated work.
The White Nights of the Postman employs numerous non-professional actors, lending the film an extra layer of authenticity. (Image provided by Tianma Xingkong)
Director Konchalovsky said: “In recent years, I’ve started to think that modern films exempt audiences from meditation... Over these years, I’ve actually been unsure whether I truly understand the essence of cinema. So in this film, I tried to explore new possibilities of combining moving images with sound, and to see the world through the eyes of a ‘newborn,’ calmly exploring life. Meditation is a state where one becomes aware of being one with the universe. Perhaps I wanted to sharpen my hearing through this film, trying to listen to the whispers of the cosmos.”
The White Nights of the Postman won the Best Director Award at the Venice Film Festival, showcasing director Konchalovsky’s reflections on and imagination of real life. (Image provided by Tianma Xingkong)
Director Konchalovsky’s 2014 latest work, The White Nights of the Postman, not only won the Venice Green Film Award and was nominated for the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival, but also defeated strong contenders like Birdman to claim the Best Director Award. It was hailed as the biggest surprise of the festival. The film’s portrayal of Russia’s beautiful landscapes and village scenes is simple yet moving, offering a rare opportunity to see a side of Russia beyond the usual impressions.
Chinese poster for The White Nights of the Postman. (Image provided by Tianma Xingkong)
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