“The Last Station” (2009) – The Final Years of Leo Tolstoy

“The Last Station” is a 2009 biographical film directed by Michael Hoffman. The film centers around the final years of the great Russian writer Lev Tolstoy, one of the most significant figures in world literature. It delves into the conflicts and tensions between the characters during Tolstoy’s last years, when he decided to leave his aristocratic life and embrace simplicity, seeking inner peace.

Main Plot

The story in “The Last Station” revolves around the turmoil within Tolstoy’s family and those around him when he decides to forgo his wealth and leave everything to the Russian people. Tolstoy believed that his literary works would have greater value if shared with the common people, and he wanted his children to be excluded from inheriting the family’s vast fortune.

The film does not merely focus on a historical figure but also highlights the complex relationships among the people in Tolstoy’s life, including his wife, Sonya Tolstoy, his closest associates, and even the doctors who tended to him in his last days.

An interesting element of the film is the portrayal of two central characters, Sonya Tolstoy and Valentin Bulgakov, Tolstoy’s assistant. The tension between their personal choices and the great ideals Tolstoy pursued is explored, reflecting part of the values and principles Tolstoy adhered to in his life.

Impressive Performances

The film stars renowned actors such as Christopher Plummer (as Lev Tolstoy), Helen Mirren (as Sonya Tolstoy), Paul Giamatti, Anne-Marie Duff, Kerry Condon, and James McAvoy. Especially, the performances of James McAvoy, Helen Mirren, and Christopher Plummer were highly praised by critics and audiences alike. Each actor brought depth to their respective characters, making the audience ponder the human values depicted in the story.

Christopher Plummer, portraying Lev Tolstoy, effectively presents a man who is both strong and frail, struggling with difficult decisions in his final years. Helen Mirren, as Sonya Tolstoy, portrays a devoted wife who loves her husband deeply but also suffers from the changes in him.

The Film’s Messages

The film is not merely a biographical account of a great man but also touches on deep human issues. It raises questions about sacrifice, living with ideals, and the conflict between personal life and high moral standards. Tolstoy’s family and associates each have complex relationships and feelings, reflecting internal struggles when dealing with a man who spent his life seeking absolute truth.

One of the key messages “The Last Station” delivers is the conflict between personal life and grand ideals. While Tolstoy made significant sacrifices for his ideals, these sacrifices led to resistance from his closest family members.

Reception and Reviews

“The Last Station” received praise for its excellent performances and the delicate, insightful way the story was told. The film was produced as a collaboration between Germany, Russia, and the United States, with a runtime of 112 minutes. It earned a rating of 6.9/10 on IMDb, reflecting the general success of the film.

If you are a fan of biographical films about great historical figures, “The Last Station” is a great choice. Not only does it offer a profound look into Lev Tolstoy’s life, but it also makes the audience reflect on the value of life and the conflicts that arise when pursuing lofty ideals.