The Last Tango

Synopsis

The Last Tango with Vera Kholodnaya (1918) is a silent drama set against the tumultuous backdrop of early 20th-century Russia. The film tells the poignant story of Vera Kholodnaya, a celebrated actress facing the challenges of fame, love, and personal sacrifice during a time of social upheaval. Blending emotional storytelling with evocative silent film aesthetics, the movie explores themes of passion, resilience, and the fleeting nature of stardom. Through its expressive performances and atmospheric cinematography, the film captures the essence of an era marked by both glamour and tragedy, inviting viewers to reflect on the human condition amid historic change.

Cast

• 

  Vera Kholodnaya

  Chloe

• 

  Ossip Runitsch

  Joe

• 

  Ivan Khudoleyev

  Sir Stone

• A. Aleksandrov

  Waiter

• 

  Vladimir Maksimov

Reviews

The Last Tango with Vera Kholodnaya has received mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike. On IMDb, the film holds a modest rating of 5.6 out of 10, reflecting a range of opinions from viewers. Many praise its historical significance and the powerful portrayal of the lead character, commending the film for its authentic silent-era style and emotional depth despite the limitations of filmmaking technology at the time. For instance, some reviewers appreciate the atmospheric quality and the nostalgia it evokes for early Russian cinema. However, critics often point out that the pacing can feel slow to modern viewers and that narrative elements may seem underdeveloped, which sometimes hampers engagement. Rotten Tomatoes and Metacritic do not have extensive data due to the film's age and niche audience but the available critiques generally note its cultural importance rather than its commercial entertainment value. In summary, while not widely acclaimed as a cinematic masterpiece, The Last Tango with Vera Kholodnaya is valued by silent film enthusiasts and historians for its artistic merit and historical context.