Watch Wild Hunt of King Stakh

The movie Wild Hunt of King Stakh, released in 1980, is a haunting and surreal masterpiece of Soviet cinema. Directed by Valeri Rubinchik and based on the novel by the Ukrainian writer Ivan Franko, the film is set in the 16th century in the Carpathian Mountains, where a group of noblemen and knights embark on a dangerous and mystical journey to hunt the legendary King Stakh, a ruthless and enigmatic tyrant who rules over the region with an iron grip.

The film follows the protagonist Mykhailo, played by Boris Plotnikov, a young and brave warrior who wishes to avenge the death of his father, who was killed by King Stakh's henchmen. Mykhailo joins the hunting party, hoping to confront and kill the king. However, as they venture deeper into the forest, they begin to witness bizarre and terrifying events that seem to defy logic and reason.

The movie is a mesmerizing blend of horror, fantasy, and historical drama that explores themes of power, violence, and the supernatural. The cinematography by Yuri Klimenko is breathtaking, capturing the stunning landscapes of the Carpathian Mountains with a dreamlike quality that adds to the film's eerie atmosphere.

The performances are also outstanding, particularly Boris Plotnikov's portrayal of Mykhailo, a complex and conflicted character who struggles to maintain his sanity and morality in the face of the horrors he encounters. Elena Dimitrova and Albert Filozov also deliver compelling and nuanced performances as two of the noblemen who have their own hidden motives for participating in the hunt.

The film's pacing is deliberate and deliberate, creating a sense of tension and dread that builds steadily throughout the story. The scenes of violence and gore are graphic and disturbing, but they are balanced by moments of poetry and mysticism that add to the film's haunting beauty.

The movie is also notable for its score, which features a mix of traditional Ukrainian folk music and experimental electronic sounds by the composer Valentin Silvestrov. The music, like the film's visuals, creates a hypnotic and otherworldly atmosphere that immerses the viewer in the haunting world of King Stakh.

In conclusion, the Wild Hunt of King Stakh is a masterpiece of Soviet cinema that deserves to be rediscovered by modern audiences. Its stunning visuals, gripping story, and powerful performances make it a must-see for fans of horror, fantasy, and historical drama. The film's messages about power, violence, and the supernatural resonate as strongly today as they did when the movie was first released. Highly recommended for all fans of cinematic artistry and storytelling.