Capsule review by Alan Thomas of MoviesMatter

Stalker is a full of breathtaking spiritual depth. In a futuristic world, an area known as "The Zone" has become a symbol of hope for all who dare. The government tries to control it, and the Zone presents its own challenges for all who approach. Yet, rumors abound that those who penetrate to the center of the Zone will have their deepest longings fulfilled.

The "stalker" (really a guide) brings two other men, one a rationalist professor and another a materialistic writer on a journey to the center of the Zone. The choices each makes as he confronts the dangers and reality of this mysterious area are used to speak with great insight about the dangers of each worldview. Ultimately the stalker, too, must question his role in the outside world that he has such a hard time understanding.

Master director Andrei Tarkovsky succeeds in creating a stark yet wonderful and beautiful world, using clearly Christian imagery, in which we can see and understand our own situation so clearly.

Additional resources for this entry:

• There are two existing Arts & Faith discussions of director Andrei Tarkovsky, one in the general film section and one in the film criticism section.
• IMDB listing for this film.

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This page was last updated on Sunday, July 25, 2004 10:03 PM EST .