Formula of Love (1984)
A young aristocrat, Aleksei Fedyashev, is languishing in his family's country estate, spending his days reading poetry and confessing his love... to a statue. Upon hearing that famous Count Cagliostro is touring Russia and has created quite a buzz in high society with his "magic", he decides to ask the Count to bring the statue to life...
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I think it's a movie about Russia. An Italian illusionist and stooge fooling well-to-do people with occult and magic like illusionist tricks, perhaps a copy of modern Copperfield, but with emphasis on occult, spiritualism, however presented as secret knowledge, and finally a businessman, comes on tour to Russia, where he hopes to find lots of rich monkeys who are ready to give their brilliants and money to the mystical stooge, who offers his magic for solving their problems. Has he succeeded ? Watch the movie. The Love formula opens in very simple, everyday things, so trivial as "greatest magician of all times" going in bed with flu and is watched by the village doctor who doesn't give a care about all his "magical" bluff, and softly mocks the "magical" show off, while the police is already on his heels.
This one of the films which can be used as a test for ones intelligence. It calls for an ability to understand subtle multilayered humor, hints, double-meanings and symbolisms. It`s rating speaks for itself. Where else can you see such a mixture of humor and philosophy. First the phrase brings the laughter, but leaves you thinking further and further.Everything is so full of talent, wit and kind wisdom, that it grabs you even if you watch it for hundred times. This is a quality of real art.The script is written by Gorin, who is da Vinci of satirical humor, most of the text has already embedded itself into a former Soviet country modern day folklore.
Mark Zakharov being my favourite director, I would say this is not one of his best movies. And maybe this is just because I don't like the plot (you know, all of that Caliostro things), because the cast and the quality of acting is impressive. Also, there are a number of funny statements in the movie, and a bit of romance. Overall, you could watch this one if you need another Sunday-style-mild-comedy. But I would rather recommend Tot Samiy Munchgausen, which is by far the best of Zakharov's movies. Still 6.5 out of 10.
The movie brings up a pile of questions, managing to speak about love, purpose of life, change of beliefs - all at the same time, in one piece! It is a gear mixture of romance and humor! I absolutely love it and never get tired watching it!