Gogol. The Beginning is a Russian fantasy/horror movie that takes place in the 19th century in a small town in Ukraine. The main character is Nikolai Gogol, a famous writer known for his macabre stories, who decides to move to the town in search of inspiration for a new book. Upon his arrival, Gogol is met with a series of gruesome murders that seem to be connected to a mysterious sect that worships a demon named Viy. Gogol is drawn into the investigation by a local police officer named Yakov Petrovich Guro, who is convinced that Gogol's knowledge of the supernatural can help solve the case.
As Gogol delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a web of secrets and supernatural forces that threaten to consume him. Along the way, he meets a variety of eccentric characters, including a widow who dabbles in spiritualism, a group of con artists, and a wealthy landowner who is hiding a dark secret.
The performances in Gogol. The Beginning are outstanding, particularly Sergey Badyuk as Nikolai Gogol and Oleg Menshikov as Yakov Petrovich Guro. Their dynamic together provides a unique sense of humor that lightens the mood of an otherwise dark subject matter.
The visuals in the movie are also impressive, with stunning period costumes and sets that transport the audience into the 19th century. The special effects are well done, particularly when it comes to the supernatural elements of the story.
The plot of Gogol. The Beginning is intricate and engaging, with plenty of twists and turns to keep the audience guessing. The pacing can be slow at times, but the characters and world building more than make up for any lulls in action.
Overall, Gogol. The Beginning is a thoroughly satisfying movie that blends elements of horror, fantasy, and historical drama into a unique and engaging story. It's a must-see for fans of the genre, but even those who don't typically enjoy horror or fantasy will find something to love in this beautifully crafted film.