Tied for the best movie I have ever seen

Good start, but then it gets ruined

Instead, you get a movie that's enjoyable enough, but leaves you feeling like it could have been much, much more.

One of those movie experiences that is so good it makes you realize you've been grading everything else on a curve.

A wonderful example of prewar Soviet cinematography has been recently released on DVD in Russia. The story is based on a well known folk tale about a magical pike. The movie uses details from other fairy tales to add the flavor. The digital restoration makes this beautiful black and white movie enjoyable to watch. Acting is very spirited, yet do not expect modern "professional" acting nor 21-st century digital effects. Have your imagination run wild watching the magically propelled wood stove.Unfortunately, the DVD has only original Russian track. Neither translation nor subtitles are available.