A Rough Draft is a Sci-fi Fantasy Film Full of Unyielding Action

A Rough Draft is an exciting Russian Sci-Fi Fantasy Film directed by Sergey Mokritskiy and based on the work of writer Sergei Lukianenko, author of international hits ‘Night Watch’ and ‘Day Watch.’  This sci-fi action-packed film will bring out the fearless gamer in all of us.

The movie features an array of well-equipped actors led by Nikita Volkov (Kirill)  Evgeniy Tkachuk (Kotya) and  Severija Janusauskai (Renata) who carry viewers into a “Matrix” induced fantasy world. A true gamers paradise of fast action sci-fi intrigue.

It’s obvious at first glance, it’s a big-budget film that is all about the heart-racing action. Yes, it delivers that and more. It starts with the main character Kirill (Nikita Volkov), the unstoppable video game designer, who’s at the top of his “game.” Next thing you know, as he goes about his life, things begin to change around him. Kirill begins to disappear. Oh, no not physically, he’s disappearing from the memories of those he loves. His parents, his girlfriend, co-workers, and even his dog doesn’t recognize him. What’s going on? No spoilers here!

The story gets more spine tingly interesting. Okay, let’s say crazy good! When Kirill goes to his apartment house, he finds a mysterious woman (Renata) who now lives there. His world begins to literally change right in front of his eyes. This is where the outstanding FX visual effects come in to play in this film. A new world begins to emerge before his eyes. The audience gets to experience what Kirill is told in the new dimension – “..we’re behind your time but we leave you behind in everything else.” Kirill is now thrust into a new realm. This is where he goes and is introduced to his new job as an interdimensional guard. He’s now immortal. Yet, he wants the life he knew and his girlfriend back.

A Rough Draft is a uniquely imaginative film. Looking at Kirill’s world, and the different realms, this story takes you on a non-stop journey. It’s filmed meticulously and beautifully shows the eras of time and different environments. Each realm is different, with unique moments and special effects. Just watch the Matryoshka dolls who turn into violently aggressive drones. They’re also known as Russian Nesting Dolls. On a personal note, I own a set of those vintage dolls. They sit on my bookshelf, where I may have to pay a little closer attention to them. If they move, I move…run.

Bravo to director Sergey Moritsky’s ‘A Rough Draft.’ It’s a wonderful film experience with lots of great action. For all of the sci-fi fantasy enthusiasts, the ending does leave way for a sequel. That’s something to look forward to. I give ‘A Rough Draft’ four stars. Rough Draft available on DVD and Digital from High Octane Pictures.