Moroz po kozhe

A great find, this movie was. I saw the enticing trailer via sites like you tube and my space and was more than excited to see it.

The plot was well developed and certainly believable, the cast was superb, and the setting was beautiful.

The images of Russia, from the Hotels, to the skylines, to the prison, to the country-side, were all breath taking and served to invite the viewer into Russia to experience its darkness and beauty.

A wonderful performance by the entire cast. Norman Reedus brings a charm to a convict role that is very much endearing. Slava Schoot, although begins the film as pseudo villain, ends up winning over the audience as a lovable character. Xusha Buravsky not only holds her own on a nearly all male cast, but is beautiful and engaging the entire time. And let's not forget the very entertaining role of Maya's father, a role that brought a much needed comedic craziness to the film.

I'm excited for the release in hopes of deleted scenes and bloopers and recommend this film to all who come across it. It's definitely worth the watch.

The first 30 minutes or so are very engrossing, but the plot of MOSCOW CHILL often comes near derailment in the next two-thirds. All the same, it ties up very nicely in the end. Some violence, of course, but it wastes no time on prolonged shoot-'em-ups and punch-'em-outs. Great soundtrack and use of scenery. Norman Reedus is quite convincing as genius Robin Hood computer hacker Ray Perso--his whole demeanor is kind of Zuckerbergish, which is fitting. Kseniya Buravskaya gives a particularly splendid performance as Maya, with whom Ray finds true love. Much of the supporting cast--particularly the actor who plays Maya's father--are also worthy-of-mention and do a great deal to carry this unusual film.

MOSCOW CHILL may not have the kick that thriller fans want. It also lacks the layers of intrigue that many others expect. However, it has a flavor that's just all its own. This film has real heart with steady, believable humor, which make its lesser qualities forgivable. Though it has neither the scope nor the plot development of KILLER ELITE, the conflict of how Perso wants out but finds it hard to simply walk out of the game reminded me a bit of that film.

It was very intriguing watching a new movie produced by the famous Konchalovsky (Runaway Train, Tango and Cash)

The first 15 minutes are interesting, then trouble begins: ridiculous dialogs, unreal situations etc... Inconsistent, unrealistic plot made in superficial picture of post-Soviet Russia. It looks like tabloid-quality scenario with same ridiculous "bad" and "good" guys...

The main character appears being bored, just trying to fight his sleep throughout most of his appearances. The soundtrack is OK.

Movies like Moskva, Gruz 200, Bumer seem to be infinitely more subtle in giving a portrait of the Russian past and of the reality without being naive or politically engaged. Really very disappointing.

Really enjoyed this film.

The characters and dialogue helped to bring this story to life. I thought it was a love story with an action twist. It was refreshing to watch a protagonist whose journey was fully thought out by the writer. Being able to watch Ray transform from his down and out beginning without getting heavy handed was nice. It helped that Norman Reedus was good in the role. The movie does not fall apart at the end like most films seem to.

I wasn't surprised to see that the writer also directed the film. Beautifully crafted with nice cinematography. I recommend this film.

A sexy, edgy, action filled package. Bad ass Russian gangsters meet street smart, American computer hacker (Norman Reedus - Boondock Saints), throw in a hot Russian brothel and a bear... what more could you want? A great ride. Excellent casting choices in Norman Reedus (Ray) and Slava Schoot (Dolphin), both talented, intense actors, as well as beautiful Russian newcomer Xusha Buravsky (Maya). A writer/director worth keeping your eye on.

Written by Chris Solimine (The Odyssey) and Andrei Konchalovsky (Runaway Train, Tango & Cash). Moscow Chill is Solimine's directorial debut.

Solimine and Konchalovsky also teamed for the highly anticipated, 2008 holiday film "Nutcracker- The Untold Story", starring Elle Fanning, John Turturro and Nathan Lane.