has interpreted Kafka’s novel in a very special and original way, particularly its humour. The light-hearted and sometimes farcical tone matches the claustrophobic and crazy world with which the protagonist, a sober surveyor, is confronted beyond the gates of the castle. The inhospitable and bureaucratic attitude of those living near the castle is more a result of stupidity and incomprehension than a malicious nature. The film is set everywhere and nowhere and that opens the way to a décor that is an inspired mixture of many styles. Part of the setting, while also an intrinsic part of the narrative and original soundtrack, are the many ingenious music machines that Balabanov has found room for in his film. It is therefore no exaggeration to state that the music and the art direction play leading roles in this film.
