Welcome back to Dark Corners physical media reviews. Volume three of Death Crocodile's Treasures of Soviet Animation series covers the career thus far of legendary animator Yuri Norstein and provides ample justification for his having been called the greatest animator of all time.
The collection ranges from 1969's Expressionist influenced 'The 25th, the First Day' to 1979's acclaimed 'The Tale of Tales.' From a children’s educational short about playing with matches to the antique yet breathtaking visuals of 'The Battle of Kerzhnets,' Norstein's films capture an astonishing array of styles over just a decade.
One of the highlights of this collection is Norstein's ability to create empathetic characters. The collection includes three animal fables released between 1973 and 1975, each unique in its storytelling and emotional depth. 'The Fox and the Hare' is a charming folk tale with a handcrafted style, while 'The Heron and the Crane' depicts a restrained yet touching narrative. 'Hedgehog in the Fog' stands out with its atmospheric and mysterious world.
Other notable works include 'Seasons,' an evocative journey through the year set to Tchaikovsky’s music, and 'A Day Before Our Era,' which remains experimental and poignant even as an unfinished piece.
The DVD's cover design by Beth Morris elegantly showcases Norstein's art, ensuring it speaks for itself. The set also includes insightful essays, with 'The Bashi from Elsewhere' by John Atkins particularly highlighting the reciprocal influence between Norstein and Japanese animators.
Among the extras is a documentary about Norstein’s ongoing work on a feature adaptation of Gogol's 'The Overcoat,' directed by Ryo Saitani. This documentary provides an engrossing look at Norstein’s persistence and mastery over decades despite numerous challenges, including political pressures and funding hurdles.
The compilation also includes commentaries by film scholar Michael Brooks, emphasizing Norstein’s detail-oriented approach, with every moment crafted to touch viewers deeply.
Norstein’s films are characterized by their meticulous attention to detail and have been pivotal in showcasing the power of an individual's creative vision against mass production cinema. This collection presents an opportunity to appreciate how the art of animation can transcend time and place, thanks to the talent and dedication of artists like Yuri Norstein.
Thanks for joining our review. Whether you were aware of Yuri Norstein's work or not, these films are a must-see for animation enthusiasts worldwide.