Lubov v Bolshom Gorode

Lubov v Bolshom Gorode, popularly translated as Love in the Big City, is a heartwarming and entertaining cinematic offering from Russia. Released in 2009, this captivating film does an exemplary job in mixing elements of romantic comedy, drama, and magic into an irresistible and engaging story that appeals to a broad spectrum of cinema enthusiasts.

Lubov v Bolshom Gorode hones in on the lives of three best friends from Russia – Artem, Igor and Sauna, all of whom reside in an opulent apartment in New York. The trio is best buddies, cherishing their bachelor lives, enjoying the bustling city's nightlife and relishing the company of women without committing to serious relationships. This highlights the cheeky humor and freewheeling spirit that's nested in the heart of this film, offering both light-hearted entertainment and thought-provoking commentary on relationship dynamics in the modern world.

Artem, portrayed by Aleksey Chadov, is a successful marketer and the youngest of the group. Konstantin Kryukov portrays Igor as a hotshot in the finance world, while Ville Haapasalo embodies Sauna, an ex-NHL player now working as a sports trainer. Their caustic tone and cavalier approach to relationships contrast starkly with the traditional pursuit of love seen in many romantic movies, creating a distinctive and unconventional narrative.

Until the narrative takes an unexpected turn when, during a New Year's Eve party, they upset their neighbor's kid. The child wishes that these three men could know what it feels like to be pregnant. This leads to a fantastical twist as, with the help of a shooting star, the boy's wish gets granted, and Artem, Igor, and Sauna suddenly find themselves pregnant. Their transition into this unusual situation results in hilarious yet insightful sequences.

The rest of the movie is filled with comedic situations as the trio grapples with their unexpected pregnancies, blending in a touch of slapstick humor with emotionally tender moments. It becomes evident that their lives, as they used to know, stand completely transformed. They come to encounter the realities of pregnancy and motherhood, which guides them to a new understanding and appreciation for women that they never had before, moving beyond their previous cavalier attitude towards relationships. This transformation stands as the film's central theme, effectively redefining love and responsibility in the "big city" and using the magical element to achieve this profound narrative shift.

Their journey is accompanied by the beautiful acting skills of popular Russian actresses Vera Brezhneva, Anastasia Zadorozhnaya, and, Nonna Grishaeva, who deliver memorable performances, perfectly complementing the leading men’s unique predicament.

The film was directed by Maryus Vaysberg, who brilliantly unravels this intriguing plot with precision and creativity, infusing a refreshing touch to the traditional comedy genre. Integrated with the gleaming backdrop of stunning New York City views and balanced with an alluring music score, this adds a sumptuous cinematic view that elevates the audience experience.

In essence, Lubov v Bolshom Gorode is not just a romantic comedy. It's a cleverly-scripted film exploring the lives of three modern men tossed into an extraordinary ‘impossible’ circumstance, and how they learn, change and adapt in terms of their perspective towards women and life itself. This film addresses significant themes like respect, responsibility, and the emotional depths of love, wrapped in a humorous envelope.

Lubov v Bolshom Gorode is a pleasurable viewing experience filled with laughter, yet it strikes thought-provoking chords about romantic relationships and gender roles in contemporary society. Despite its comedic tone, the film is not without depth, successfully grappling with important topics in a unique and captivating way.

The movie, with its sterling performance, intriguing plot, and engaging narration, became so popular in Russia that it spurred two sequels, keeping audiences thoroughly entertained while also touching their hearts. For anyone seeking an unconventional romantic comedy injected with magical realism, heartwarming character development, and fresh storytelling techniques, Lubov v Bolshom Gorode stands as a classic cinematic choice.