Vacation of Petrov and Vasechkin, Usual and Incredible

"Vacation of Petrov and Vasechkin, Usual and Incredible", is a charming coming-of-age movie from the Soviet Union released in the year 1984. The film floats through the enchanting summer adventures of two young boys navigating through the realms of growing up. This heartwarming, classic Soviet-era film is directed by Vladimir Alenikov and features Dmitry Kharatyan and Andrey Zhitkov in the lead roles.

The stage is set in Moscow, where the main characters, Petrov and Vasechkin, are two regular schoolmates who have just experienced their first bout of an important life event, their graduation. As schools close for the summer, the boys are excited about planning their holidays. This is the point where the film invites us into an incredible journey through the bright summer holidays of Petrov and Vasechkin.

As the narrative unwinds, we are privy to the day-to-day lives of these boys, seen through their perspective, where even ordinary events become causes for adventure, exploration, and humor. The movie masterfully intertwines elements of drama, humor, family ties, friendship, and a touch of romance, forming a beautiful tapestry that reflects the essence of youth and the process of coming of age.

Detailed and vibrant characterization is one of the profound aspects of the movie. Petrov, a dreamy and inventive boy, lovingly adjusts to his home's challenges, while Vasechkin, more pragmatic and grounded, lives a disciplined life with his strict and conservative grandmother. Despite their contrasting personalities, they share an earnest and innocent bond of friendship that outshines their differences.

This bond reflects in their collaborative dream - to build an aircraft and fly, reflecting their spirit of exploration and curiosity. Along with their separate family narratives, the film explores multiple themes through several subplots involving neighborhood kids, local bullies, the first taste of young love, and the mischief and joy of childhood years. This episodic narrative takes the viewer on an enchanting trip, creating a mosaic of summer vacation experiences while subtly weaving in themes of growing up, changing relationships, maturity, and coming to terms with life's realities.

Moreover, the film remains culturally enlightening, giving the viewer glimpses of Soviet youth traditions, high school graduation routines, countryside customs, and typical city life in 1980s Soviet Union.

Another highlight of the movie is its music. Composed by Alexander Zatsepin, the score suits the atmosphere of the story in the best possible way, engaging with the youthful energy and adventure that the movie presents. It creates a vivid musical backdrop that perfectly complements the events unfolding on the screen.

On the technical front, the film showcases exceptional directorial proficiency, creative cinematography, and sterling performances by the young leading actors, Dmitry Kharatyan and Andrey Zhitkov. Dmitri Kharatyan, who played Vasechkin, dazzles us with his acting range by playing a practical and disciplined boy with an undercurrent of sensitivity. On the other hand, Andrey Zhitkov, who portrayed the character of Petrov, remarkably instils life into his innovative, dreamy, and somewhat defiant character.

Despite its duration of over 2.5 hours, "Vacation of Petrov and Vasechkin, Usual and Incredible" manages to keep viewers engaged with its wholesome and light-hearted storytelling, seamless script, and universal theme. The film portrays a rich tapestry of emotions, experiences, dreams, and the undeniable spirit of adventure, which can resonate with audiences across generations.

To encapsulate, "Vacation of Petrov and Vasechkin, Usual and Incredible" is a film that offers a warm, nostalgic look at childhood summers and the inescapable journey of growing up. It presents a beautiful blend of humor, adventure, and the earnestness of youth, making it a must-watch for anyone who seeks to recapture or understand the magic of childhood and the adventures that a joyful summer vacation promises. From its soulful narrative to splendid performances, this film thoroughly succeeds in capturing the imagination, heart, and spirit of the audience.