Movie Review: Two Prosecutors

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Screened at Stockholm International Film Festival 2025

This drama is carried by strong acting, a realistic setting, and meaningful themes, all brought to life through subtle and thoughtful conversations. It unfolds at a deliberate pace, building to a quietly impactful experience.

Sergey Loznitsa’s historical drama, Two Prosecutors, takes place in the Soviet Union in 1937. The story follows Kornev, a new prosecutor, who begins an investigation after receiving a surprising letter from an imprisoned, older Bolshevik. This letter, smuggled out against all odds, leads Kornev to request a meeting with the sender.

The movie opens with an old prisoner ordered to destroy a large collection of intercepted letters. Remarkably, one letter – written in the prisoner’s own blood – escapes destruction and sparks an investigation by a prosecutor. Director Loznitsa creates a deeply engaging film that unfolds slowly and deliberately, drawing the audience into the restrictive settings. While some might find the pace too slow for today’s standards, it powerfully captures the feeling and social structures of the time, allowing the emotional weight of each moment to fully sink in.

The actor playing Kornev, Alexander Kuznetsov, is perfectly cast. His expressive face conveys a wide range of emotions, and he’s on screen a lot. Kornev is an ambitious newcomer who believes in doing the right thing, much like the hero in Mr. Smith Goes to Washington. As he rises through the system, he constantly faces obstacles from those in power – everything from petty justifications to complex bureaucratic roadblocks. The film’s conversations are varied, shifting between intense political discussions, serious moments, and surprisingly funny exchanges, all of which emphasize both the difficulty and the risk of Kornev’s journey.

It’s inspiring to see the young prosecutor prioritize doing what’s right, even if it risks his career. He truly believes in the justice system, though perhaps a bit naively. This idealism stands out even more when you compare him to seasoned figures like Aleksandr Filippenko and Vytautas Kaniusonis, who highlight just how inexperienced he is.

“Every step toward the goal of justice requires sacrifice, suffering and struggle.”

As a film lover, I was really struck by how visually rich this movie is. Every shot felt deliberate, especially the way it juxtaposed powerful political imagery with these incredibly mundane, almost claustrophobic settings like waiting rooms. It’s definitely a slow burn, but honestly, the amazing acting and stunning visuals more than make up for it. The story takes you on a journey, from the grim reality of a lock-up to the very top of the legal system, and it’s a powerful ride.

Two Prosecutors blends a sincere desire for justice with playful political satire and humor, keeping the film from feeling overly serious. This energetic approach makes a strong statement about one man’s fight for change within a difficult system, as he tries to expose corruption and the actions of the secret police.

This compelling film, a modern underdog story, unfolds with sharp dialogue and subtle detail, starting in a prison and reaching the highest levels of the legal system. Two Prosecutors boasts a strong cast and a hopeful, dignified tone. While the music is understated and the pace occasionally slows, the film is captivating for viewers who appreciate its unique style, ultimately delivering a satisfying conclusion that perfectly explains its intriguing title.

The bottom line: Monumental

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2025-11-17 12:43