Day Watch: Review By Brokaw

Continuing with the sci-fi adventure of "Night Watch," "Day Watch" follows the lives of several characters that are at the center of the battle between good and evil. Before you read on, it is important to note that you do not have to have seen the first film before this one to enjoy this movie, although it might set the background for the story. Just remember, this is an interesting blend of science fiction, special effects and the universal theme of good and evil. These films are in Russian with subtitles that are themselves very interesting and cutting-edge. You'll see the words shake when someone knocks on a door, drip, and basically add an extra bit of entertainment to the movie. These two films have broken all the records in post-Soviet Russia, out-grossing "Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King" and "Spiderman 2."

The story pits the forces of light and darkness and the characters are a mix of humans, vampires, witches and shape shifters. But as in everything, "sometimes there are shades of gray."

The story begins with a recap of what happened in the past and describes how the "chalk of fate" is the one thing that can save humanity. But where is this important item? This piece of chalk that can turn back time and grant wishes? This is something everyone wants, wouldn't you? But the thing to remember is it cannot change someone else's fate. Fate is fate, after all.

The plot begins with the fact that long ago the supernatural beings formed a truce, thereby striking a balance between good and evil, but that is on shaky ground. One spilled drop of blood can break the truce and end humanity.

The story revolves around Anton (Konstantin Khabensky) who is caught between the two forces. He is a protector of the light, but his son is part of the dark side. Anton's trainee (and love interest) Svetlana (Maria Poroshina)) is a powerful force for the light. If his son and Svetlana cross paths, the world will end.

The story aside, this movie is a unique blend of paranormal, horror, and very imaginative special effects that will entertain audiences and continue the cult following of these films. In a world where people can switch bodies, fly, and perform all kinds of fascinating maneuvers, the movie provides an interesting escape from ordinary life. And yes, it is very different, but it is also captivating. This is, after all, a Russian fantasy film.