The Blackout (2019)

Director: Egor Baranov, Nathalia Hencker

Starring: Aleksey Chadov, Pyotr Fyodorov, Svetlana Ivanova

Life on Earth is rapidly destroyed except for a small area in Eastern Europe.

‘The Blackout’ has a very clear message about humanity’s destructive inclinations, and an interesting way of conveying this message.

The film has a very exciting opening scene, and then remains mysterious and atmospheric well after they halfway mark. Once Id (Artyom Tkachenko) arrives, the film shifts significantly. Its not always clear why he decided to betray his kind and offered his assistance to the humans, apart from the fact that he needs a human to find Ra, who controls the People. (Some might consider this blasphemous, referring to the sun god Ra).

Despite being so powerful, Ra is easily overwhelmed by Id and a handful of humans. He is a passive, almost insignificant character. I also found it difficult deciding who the actual protagonist is.

‘The Blackout’ is not the most fast-paced sci-fi film and might disappoint in that regard. It is, however, very different to most sci-fi films out there and non-stop entertainment. Some action sequences towards the end are incredible. The film also has a fantastic score, great cinematography, and amazing visuals.

Would I watch it again? Probably, yes.