Gorky Park is described as "a highly acclaimed
murder / mystery of international intrigue and danger,"
that is "a spectacular, suspenseful exploration of intrigue,
double-dealing and murder in the cold, barren world of Moscow's
Gorky Park." This story takes place long before the Berlin
Wall came down, when the old, repressive system of government
of the old Soviet Union was still in power, when "people
fell through a chasm, between what is said and what is done."
Chief Inspector Renko in the past often had
to solve cases, taking the risk of exposing the evil dealings
of the KGB, and getting in trouble himself. When handed the
case of the mutilated bodies found in Gorky Park, Renko gathers
enough evidence to suggest that these murders were the handiwork
of the KGB. However, after being urged by his superior, the
head Moscow Prosecutor Iamskoy (Bannen), to take the case, and
after being reassured protection, Renko bravely goes forth,
step by step, in the spirit of Mr. Perot & Miss Marple,
to investigate suspects, possible witnesses, gather evidence,
and establish motives, all under the hostile, hindering, uncooperative
eye of the KGB, led by the nasty, corrupt Major Pribluda (Rikki
Fulton). When threatened on occasion, throughout the film, he
isn't afraid to boldly confront his enemies with the truth.
His careful investigation leads him to young,
wary of authority dissident, Irena (Pacula) who Renko knows
is the material witness, that can bring the murderer to justice,
and stop Osborne; the rich, American businessman who is mixed
up in the case. Even though Renko & Irena fall passionately
in love, Renko is a disciplined, professional policeman who
knows what he must do to get this uncooperative, desperate witness
to spill the beans. Then, his troubles just increase, as he
has to deal with a surprise betrayal, caused by unsuspected
corruption, somehow find a way to complete his case, protect
the love of his life, Irena, bring the guilty to justice, follow
orders and stay alive himself to live another day.
This murder/mystery script, (by Dennis Potter),
is well-written, and brought to life by the direction and pacing,
(by Michael Apted), and the acting by a terrific cast.
Joanna Pacula, who grew up in communist Poland,
can identify very well with her character, Irina Asanova, as
a person who desperately wants to be free, and out of Russia.
William Hurt is terrific, and works well with
the rest of the talented cast, as the disciplined, gutsy, professional
investigator, Arkady Renko, who is vigorously challenged in
more than one way in his quest for the truth, justice and love
for Irena.
Lee Marvin - does an excellent job as the villainous,
cold, soul-less American Businessman, Jack Osborne, who ruthlessly
will do anything to succeed in his bold plan, to be even more
wealthy, without suffering any personal consequences.
Brian Dennehy - does a great job as detective
William Kirwill from New York, who helps Renko solve a major
puzzle piece of the case, and makes a great, life-saving, part-time
side-kick, whose mind is set on justice and revenge for his
brother's death in Gorky Park.
The music really adds to the suspenseful, stark
feeling of the movie, the fast-paced action scenes, the uplifting
ending, as well as to the tender, passionate love scene between
Renko and Irene, in Renko's bedroom.
The photography and lighting used during the
Moscow scenes is stark, dreary, and really sets the mood of
this repressive society. In Sweden, the photography & lighting
are brighter and cheerier, except for the dark bar scene, when
KGB and Renko sit down for a chat and a drink, to discuss the
upcoming plan.
Favorite Scenes Include: The scenes that show
Renko gathering clues, and how he builds his case after each
piece of evidence is gathered. Step by step, he slowly develops
his theory, as he puts two and two together. The Renko - Irene
scenes are well- acted, and most enjoyable; especially the final
interrogation scene. The interrogation scene of the scummy,
KGB informant, Theodore Golodkin (Alexei Sayle), is entertaining.
The action scenes are well directed, and well-paced, as well
as a bit violent (R rating). The Dennehy-Renko scenes give a
lot of insight to the characters and the plot, and the ending
scene gives a positive twist to the story.
The R rating was given because of the passionate
love scene, (that shows a lot for 1983 standards), the graphic,
opening scene when the bodies are first uncovered, and the short,
violent action sequences, all of which make this film not appropriate
for children. This reviewer highly recommends this outstanding,
suspenseful murder mystery to adult audiences, who love a great,
suspenseful who- done-it, with intrigue, double-dealing, bravery
and love mixed into the core of the story.
Directed by: Michael Apted. Screenplay by:
Dennis Potter, based on novel by Martin Cruz Smith. Director
of Photography: Ralf D. Bode. Music by: James Horner.
|