In this colorful modern-day parable of good and evil, a humble village electrician devotes his compassion and ingenuity to destitute neighbors in a wind-swept valley of Kyrgyzstan.
The slow and unusual narrative lacks real drama but provides a compelling and beautiful depiction of village life.
Yet despite bold imagery and topical social commentary, a slender running time leaves characters and scenes under-nourished.
Kubat is a relaxed screen presence, and his film meanders along – until the jolt-ending, that, in truth, seems slightly out of step with what has gone before.
A seemingly light and even simple work, The Light Thief has hidden depths.
There are such boisterous high spirits at the heart of this that you can almost forgive its lack of coherency.
Written and directed by its star, this is a touching, pawkily amusing example of that fairly rare genre, the satirical tragedy.
It’s worth seeing for the magnificent scenery and a glimpse at a society disappearing faster than you can say soaring electricity bills.
General release. Check local listings for show times.
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