Battleship Potemkin (1925)

Director: Sergei Eisenstein

Starring: Aleksandr Antonov, Vladimir Barskiy, Grigoriy Aleksandrov

In the midst of the Russian Revolution of 1905, the crew of the battleship Potemkin mutiny against the brutal, tyrannical regime of the vessel’s officers. The resulting street demonstration in Odessa brings on a police massacre.

‘Battleship Potemkin’ is set during the Russian Revolution of 1905. After days at sea, the meat have gone rotten and the sailors refuse to eat. The ship’s doctor tells the sailors the meat can simply be washed clean and is safe to eat.

When the sailors refuse to eat the meat or borscht made by the chef, the Captain orders the sailors to be shot in front of a firing squad. However, Vakulinchuk – leader of the rebels – pleads for the sailors not be executed. Soon after, the sailors overpower the officers and take control of the ship. Sadly, Vakulinchuk is killed in the process.

When Vakulinchuk’s body is brought to shore, his death sparks a rebellion. These scenes in town are absolutely remarkable, with thousands of extras being used. The scenes on the steps were absolutely fantastic. This must have been quite an undertaking back in 1925, and to this day it is jaw-dropping to see. Nowadays, they can simply use CGI, but back in the day this off course was not possible. ‘Battleship Potemkin’ also has an impressive finale, with a suspenseful score during the climax. This was incredible!

In Russian. (Silent Film)

Would I watch it again? Yes.