when the cranes are flying

When the Cranes are Flying is a 1957 Soviet film directed by Mikhail Kalatozov. The film is set during the Second World War and tells the story of a young couple whose lives are affected by the conflict. The film is often regarded as a classic of Soviet-era cinema and has won numerous awards over the years. The title of the film refers to the famous painting of Alexander Deineka that depicts cranes in flight.

The Story

The film takes place in 1941, just before the start of the war. The main character, Veronika, is a young woman who is in love with Boris, a young man who is about to enlist in the army. Before he can leave, however, Veronika discovers that she is pregnant. Boris is killed in action, and Veronika is left alone to raise their child. She is later accused of being a spy and is sent to a prison camp.

The Themes

When the Cranes are Flying explores many themes related to war and its effects on ordinary people. One of the main themes is the idea of sacrifice. Both Veronika and Boris sacrifice their own desires for the sake of each other and their families. This sacrifice is further emphasized when Veronika is accused of being a spy and is sent to prison. Another theme is the idea of love in difficult times. Veronika's love for Boris and her child is what keeps her going, even in the face of extreme adversity.

The Techniques

When the Cranes are Flying is notable for its cinematography and editing. The film makes use of many long takes, which gives the viewer a sense of the characters' emotions and experiences. The camera often moves with the characters, creating a sense of intimacy and realism. The film also includes a number of striking visual moments, such as the use of slow-motion during the bombing of Moscow and the memorable scene of the cranes flying through the sky.

The Legacy

When the Cranes are Flying has had a lasting impact on cinema and is considered a classic of Soviet-era filmmaking. The film won the Palme d'Or at the 1958 Cannes Film Festival and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. Many critics regard it as one of the greatest war films ever made and it continues to be studied and appreciated by filmmakers and scholars around the world.

Conclusion

When the Cranes are Flying is a powerful and moving film that explores the impact of war on ordinary people. Its themes of sacrifice and love in difficult times continue to resonate with audiences today. The film's groundbreaking cinematography and editing techniques have made it a classic of Soviet-era cinema and a benchmark for artistry in war films. It remains an essential watch for anyone interested in the history of cinema or the impact of war on the human psyche.