2/5
This is a unique type of free-form documentary. The people talk to the camera as if they are taking direction and what they are saying is not what they normally would. It feels not like an interview but a reading. However, this style adds to the humor. While this documentary is not what anyone would consider a funny movie, it definitely has its moments and has a quirky, witty way about it that made me laugh, chuckle, or at least smile more than once. Unfortunately, I think that is also a problem. It is reflecting the director's viewpoint and quirks and not that of the citizens of Belene, which I don't think was its intention. At any rate, the cinematography was beautiful, the editing seamless, and the music amazing. At the end of the movie, everything is tied back together and seemingly random bits and pieces finally have bigger meaning.
The movie has a lot of problems though, one of which is a difference of expectations, perhaps as a result of its title. The movie doesn't really talk about the mosquito problem that much, instead it focuses on the Bulgarian city of Belene and its inhabitants, quirks, and ups and downs. However, that generates the question; so now what? What was the point? What did I get out of this movie. And sadly, I think very little. Don't bother with this movie unless you are interested in a small Bulgarian city named Belene or a director named Andrey Paounov.
Note: This was the second film I saw in the Critic's Week selection and there were only French subtitles (but the subtitles were not the problem, the movie was).
IMDb link: http://imdb.com/title/tt1043510/