A powerful opening sequence draws one in with warm tones surrounding a married couple in an embrace. In a small Siberian village, honest and faithful family man Egor is a well-respected figure among his neighbors. One day, he finds out he has two months left to live. No hospital or shamanistic folk remedy can save him, and unable to bear leaving his family behind, Egor decides to take drastic measures. The Man Who Surprised Everyone is inspired by Siberian folklore that claims changing sex means avoiding death. After settling for what could raise hell in this quiet village, Egor keeps silent. The psychological pressure and isolation escalates in the forest hut he hides in. The deep, black-toned images are a sophisticated presentation of Egor’s loneliness, as he immerses himself into darkness. The first scene, filled with affection, sends a message that encompasses the entire film, while his wife’s embrace and the love she ultimately shows will resonate with audiences. This is a superb piece rooted in the actors’ in-depth performances, unique subject matter, and outstanding visual aesthetics. (Erica Nam)