The narrative, inspired by Yevgeny Zamyatin’s story, is set in a contemporary sports school, primarily focusing on swimming facilities. The design captures the oppressive and claustrophobic environment of the athletes’ daily lives.

The film’s settings are characterized by monotonous and somber spaces, such as dimly lit dormitory corridors, austere training rooms, and utilitarian living quarters. This design choice emphasizes the characters’ sense of entrapment and the relentless routine they endure.
Attention to detail extends to the portrayal of the athletes’ living conditions, reflecting a sense of uniformity and suppression. The deliberate use of a muted color palette and minimalist decor reinforces the themes of isolation and the characters’ emotional suppression.

Director: Ivan Tverdovsky
Cinematographer: Artyom Emelyanov
Production Design: Vanya Bowden

2022