Andrei Tarkovsky's The Stalker 1979

Like all of Andrei Tarkovsky films, the Stalker is a spiritual journey. Amazingly,Tarkovsky, a Russian Filmmaker, deals with spirituality, knowing censors are waiting to cut out his disagreeable themes on politics and nuclear weapons--yet some way The Stalker is released, and seemingly with full creative control. Judging by the content, this film is definitely risky, dealing with nuclear weapons years before stepping into a cold war. While watching the film, I couldn't help thinking about the reaction of the Russian censors--the film must have been challenging for them to watch. And with out doubt, I'm sure The Stalker will be a hard film for the impatient. But for me,The Stalker extends a hand to the viewer in special way—to watch this film is to partake and become a piece in its intricate story. Though the title may wet one’s appetite for an obsessed criminal, The Stalker is a science fiction film minus the special effects—something that’s almost a sin to an American audience, where science fiction is known for lasers, droids and roaring spaceships. But Tarkovsky proves less is more. And after watching this film, I’ve reaffirmed my position on cut shots: they're use too often these days. In this film every shot has significance. Tarkovsky creates suspense with superior camera movement. He relies on the viewers mind to create the feeling of fear. For those new to Tarkovsky, you must be informed of his use of Oneiric sequences: a deceptive dream-like state. One can easily be confused, for these day dreams occur at random and give no warning when they initially begin or even end. But Oneiric dream sequences are constants in Tarkovsky’s story telling, so if you're going to watch Tarkovsky, you'll have to adjust to their subtlety. However, all of his films, which tell the story in pieces, are pleasing when viewed twice. A rewarding element to look for is the character that unexpectedly takes a spill to the ground. In all of Tarkovsky’s films, his characters fall before stepping into to hardship. I hate to delve in the plot or even give a run down, for this drains the films luster. I watched the film not knowing much about the plot, and to fully enjoy The Stalker that's the best way. I can only mention the Oneiric film theory, the deceptive dream like states, and of course the classic spill before adversity. With out understanding this, you'll likely watch feeling lost by the subtle turn of events I saw this film at a time when I longed for my desire, film making, and had no clue how to obtain my goal. Before watching this film, I went in feeling one way,and when it ended I was left watching a blank screen, fumbling over new thoughts.But I will say this: If you desire something, how far would you go for it? And would you accept all that you find?