I Am Twenty (1965)

Candid Reflections of Life and Identity in Russia

In the tumultuous landscape of the mid-20th century, Marlen Khutsiev’s 1965 cinematic masterpiece emerges as a striking and unfiltered portrayal of Soviet youth. As we journey through this remarkable film, we encounter the spirited pulse of youth culture, the intricate web of personal identities, and the awakening political currents in the Soviet Union during an era of momentous transformation. In a world teetering on the brink of revolution, we are invited to witness the palpable fervor, untamed rebellion, and the relentless pursuit of authenticity that courses through the veins of the film’s protagonists.

Khutsiev’s canvas unfolds with a dynamic vitality, mirroring a society on the precipice of change, all of which to envelope us in the characters’ turbulent odysseys, utilizing visceral, hand-held shots and spontaneous movements that vividly transport us back to the era. The striking monochrome aesthetic, evocative of the period, immerses us in an authentic atmosphere that transcends the boundaries of time.

I don’t believe in people who are too witty at such a young age.

Our voyage embarks on an exploration of the quintessential youth experience within a society in the throes of metamorphosis. Characters, led by a magnetic central figure, undertake multifaceted quests for love, artistic expression, and personal fulfillment. The film astutely captures their fervor, an insatiable restlessness, and their unwavering pursuit of lives imbued with profound meaning.

As the narrative unfolds, the film introduces us to the charismatic Sasha, our central character, who is at the heart of the story. Sasha’s journey takes us through a series of love affairs, each revealing the complex interplay of personal relationships within the backdrop of Soviet society. These romantic entanglements provide insight into the characters’ lives, where the idealism of youth often clashes with the practical realities of their political and social environment.

Set against the backdrop of the Cold War, the film gently uncovers the ideological contradictions and conflicts that simmer beneath the surface. It reveals the burgeoning disillusionment among the youth with the sanctioned dogma, juxtaposed with their impassioned commitment to engaging with the world and contributing to societal metamorphosis. These subtle political undercurrents imbue the characters’ experiences with complexity and depth.

Khutsiev’s cinematic vision defies conventional narrative structures, mirroring the capricious nature of youth’s unpredictable voyage. The film shuns the conventions of storytelling, inviting us to immerse ourselves in the lives of its characters and uncover a mosaic of fleeting moments, raw emotions, and introspective ponderings.

Beyond its cinematic allure, the film stands as a unique historical artifact, offering a captivating portal to a specific juncture in Soviet history. It presents a moving and, at times, heart-rending portrayal of young adults grappling with the intricate threads of their time. In its unembellished sincerity, the film becomes a compelling exploration of the hopes, dreams, and apprehensions of a generation perched on the brink of maturity. It does bring back memories of The Worst Person in the World (2021) which is a Norwegian film that follows the life of Julie, a young woman in Oslo, as she navigates the complexities of her twenties, including her evolving relationships, career choices, and the quest for self-discovery. Through a series of episodic chapters, the film offers an intimate and candid exploration of Julie’s personal and emotional journey in the modern world. Obviously, the Russian one is less colourful.

In the end, I Am Twenty is one that pulses with an enduring vitality. With its artistic aesthetics, authentic character portrayals, and an astute interpretation of the socio-political landscape, the film remains a perennial exploration of the human experience. The work serves as a tribute to the ceaseless dynamism of youth and the universal themes of identity, freedom, and transformation. It continues to be an immersive homage to the indomitable spirit of youth, providing a glimpse into a generation and an era that perpetually captivates and inspires.