As Good As It Gets

In truth, there is barely enough story here to make a film.

The film makes a home in your brain and the only cure is to see it again.

The movie turns out to be a little better than the average. Starting from a romantic formula often seen in the cinema, it ends in the most predictable (and somewhat bland) way.

Nothing but pure comedy from start to finish it even carries well if you can not get hold of a subtitled version. One of a series of films by one of my favourite Russian Director/Producers, Alexander Rogozhkin starring basically the same core cast of actors, and lots of vodka. The story revolves around a hospital casualty ward on New Years Eve, arguably the biggest holiday in Russia. The characters are determined that despite the unfortunate accidents that have landed them here, they will triumph and have a good time. Just like the British 'Carry-On' series of the sixties and seventies some of the gags can be seen coming a mile off, but you still split your sides laughing. Pure escapist fun that demands nothing more from you than to enjoy the moment, the sort of comedy that a Hollywood script team could just never match. See also the others in the series; Peculiarities of National Hunting, Fishing, Hunting in the Wintertime and Politics.

This is silly New Year "Vodka comedy" with all the best things available within the genre - used properly - for one purpose only - to amuse! The movie is extremely funny. If you are watching it drunk or stoned - it will be quintessentially hilarious. There is absolutely nothing thought-provoking, or even serious - about this movie. Which is a good thing! What kind of silly comedy - would contain any of that heaviness. The cast is excellent. Which actually makes this no-budget comedy stand out. One thing about it - special though. New Year celebration - is probably the biggest and happiest holiday in Russia. We have group of people from all walks of life jammed together in "Casualty" right on New Year's Eve! But the need to party is overwhelming! No pain, no casts, no crouches can stop them from partying. PARTY MUST TAKE PLACE! Very happy movie!