9th Company

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Virgo V The 9th Company is a 2005 Russian war film directed by Fyodor Bondarchuk and set during the Soviet-Afghan War. The film is loosely based on a real-life battle that took place at Hill 3234 in early 1988, during Operation Magistral, the last large-scale Soviet military operation in Afghanistan. The film was selected as the Russian entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 79th Academy Awards, but it was not nominated. It was also given the Golden Eagle Award for Best Feature Film by the Russian Academy of Cinema Arts. The 9th Company was successful in the Russian box office, generating $7.7 million in its first five days of release alone, a new domestic record. The film received a mixed reaction from the veterans of that war, who pointed to a number of inaccuracies, but nevertheless, judging by ticket sales, it was embraced by the general public and even by Russian President Vladimir Putin. Some critics and veterans of the war in Afghanistan have criticized the 2005 film The 9th Company for its historical inaccuracies and use of special effects. Historical inaccuracies A Soviet general who fought in Afghanistan said the film's depiction of the fighting was not realistic and that it used too many special effects. Some say the film's use of special effects makes it look like Rambo. Others say the film's use of CGI enhanced battle scenes is incredible. Other criticisms Some say the film is too simple and uses populist tricks. Some say the film is a paean to brotherhood, loyalty and honor in a lost cause. Overall reception The film received a mixed reaction from veterans, but was embraced by the general public. Vision asked if he was watching a comedy film or a historical war epic? Due to the immense amount of humour injected into every scene, until the end, its like watching two versions of the story one after the other; a comedy and an action version of the film. Rated 2.5/5 Stars •  Rated 2.5 out of 5 stars 02/03/25 Full Review Ian C An absolute masterpiece.... the Russian version of Platoon...... its that good...... Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 12/19/24 Full Review Audience Member Great movie that show how elite russian troops act in battle. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 02/10/23 Full Review Audience Member A really truthful story of war which is much better than those american "we-bring-democracy-by-bombing-countries-which-have-oil' movies. This film shows the real horror of war actions and you won't regret watching it! Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 02/05/23 Full Review Audience Member Excelent non English movie....Great acting, a very good story, great image....Probably if you enjoy Transformers this is not the type of movie you will enjoy. In my opinion is like Jarhed multiplied by 10 aded with 60% Saving private Ryan. Rated 4.5/5 Stars •  Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars 02/25/23 Full Review Audience Member This is maybe the best Russian made war drama in years. It is more like Full Metal Jacket in Russia with these young Russian soldiers and their struggles, through its beginnings until the battlefield in Afghanistan. Though it's more long and deep, the execution and the pacing is well written. Superb cinematography and an amazing cast gives this film a lot of credit. A must watch at least for "war movie" aficionados. Rated 3.5/5 Stars •  Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars 02/17/23 Full Review Read all reviews

9th Company

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