Oi, vy gusy

In this modest and sensitive black & white film, Bobrova sketches with small and often anecdotal scenes a penetrating picture of Russia today. Oy, vy gusy is shot at authentic locations and the rolls are played by amateurs (one of whom is also in reality the brother of the film-maker). The story, focusing on the despondency of the poor and underprivileged in Russia, is based on Bobrova's own experiences. She wrote the scenario ten years ago, but censorship prevented it being filmed. When perestroika enabled shooting of this autobiographical story, Bobrova had already decided that she wanted to direct it herself and first attended a directing course.Oy, vy gusy relates the story of three brothers who do not resemble each other greatly in their characters, but who do have in common the fact that they are poor and have no chance of escaping poverty, deep in the Russian countryside. At the same time, the Olympic Games are in progress in Moscow. The ceremonies reach the forgotten corner of the empire through radio and television and contrast starkly with the everyday drudge.Oy, vy gusy is of course autobiographical, while also being a metaphor for the general situation in Russia. Critics have already predicted that the film will not easily be forgotten. Variety wrote `Future programs on Soviet film in the '90s should definitely keep this one in mind.' And Dimitri Eipides of the Toronto Film Festival: `...the film achieves a powerful air of authenticity that is destined to make it a classic of Russian cinema.'î