Loosely based on a short story by American novelist William Saroyan, The Banishment (Izgnanie) is a powerful and atmospheric portrait of an unravelling marriage. Having left the city, Alex and Vera set up home with their children in a remote but idyllic-seeming country house. But then one day Vera makes a shocking confession, setting in motion a chain of events that will lead to tragedy.

Acclaimed director Andrey Zvyagintsev, who directed the multi-award winning 2003 The Return (Vozvrashcheniye) confirms his position as an absolute master of style and mood with this stunningly photographed story of masculine pride, morality and betrayal. Although it has yet to meet the acclaim that greeted The Return, the film did land the Best Actor award at last year's Cannes festival for Konstantin Lavronenko.

The Banishment will be released on UK DVD on 8th December 2008 by Artificial Eye at the RRP of £19.99. the disc features an anamorphic 2.35:1 transfer, Dolby 2.0 stereo and 5.1 surround soundtracks and optional English Subtitles. Extra features consist of:

• Interview with director Andrey Zvyagintsev (19 mins);
• Theatrical Trailer.