Not only American films are classics, remember that. A (Russian) all-star cast and interesting plot makes this movie both likable and irresistible.It's sort of an "Atlantis" story here, with a group of people setting out to find a lost (previously assumed)fantasy land and upon reaching it, not knowing how to deal with the customs of the place, have to deal with all too real consequences.The plot itself is enticing enough, but the acting is incredible and the theme song is most memorable.I haven't read the the book, so I can't honestly compare it to the movie, but speaking for myself, I know this will be one movie I can and will never forget.