Is First Encounter - Last Encounter Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1987)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

In the evolving tapestry of Mystery, Drama, Comedy cinema, the 1987 release of First Encounter - Last Encounter stands as a landmark endeavor that pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into The story concerns the events in Saint Petersburg on the eve of the First World War. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Mystery, Drama, Comedy are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "The story concerns the events in Saint Petersburg on the eve of the First World War. Private detective Petya Chukhontsev, a law student who has not completed his studies, investigates the case of the murdered inventor Kuklin. He was murdered exactly as he predicted during a New Year's visit to Chukhontsev. While investigating the Kuklin case, Petya soon realizes that the central figure in this case is the German Scholz, the owner, who cheaply buys up the inventions of Russian craftsmen and hands them over to the spy Siegfried Gay, an advisor to the German embassy. . However, Petya will soon understand that it is better to mind his own business..."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. While the script occasionally leans into familiar territory, the efforts of Mikhail Morozov ensure that the emotional beats of First Encounter - Last Encounter always land with sufficient weight. Mikhail Morozov provides a steady, reliable performance that anchors the film through its narrative shifts.

The direction by Vitaliy Melnikov is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 92 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is First Encounter - Last Encounter truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Mystery, Drama, Comedy, then this is a worthwhile watch if you have a specific interest in the themes or the performers involved.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 5.3/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, First Encounter - Last Encounter explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 1987 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Vitaliy Melnikov respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, First Encounter - Last Encounter is an interesting experiment that, while flawed, offers enough moments of creative spark to be worth a casual glance for the curious. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Mikhail Morozov or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, First Encounter - Last Encounter is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.