Apr 24 2024
The Ascent, a Soviet film released in 1977, is a remarkable and powerful war drama that stands as a testament to the exceptional talent of its director, Larisa Shepitko. The film, which is an adaptation of the novel Sotnikov by Vasil Bykov, masterfully explores themes of sacrifice, betrayal, and the moral complexities of war. Set …
Apr 18 2024
Actress Hayley Mills was born on this day, April 18, 1946, in London, England. Her child acting career began with her debut performance in the 1959 crime drama Tiger Bay, for which she won the “BAFTA Award for Most Promising Newcomer.” A year later she starred in the Disney classic Pollyanna (1960), and quickly became one of …
Apr 17 2024
Enchanted Desna is a film that gives us insight into the mind of Aleksandr Dovzhenko as a child, growing up by the Desna river. Directed by Yuliya Solntseva, the film is an “autobiographical film story” by her husband, Aleksandr Dovzhenko. Both thought-provoking and beautiful, the film elicits memories and introspection from its viewers. For instance, …
Apr 14 2024
Born on this day April 14, 1940 in Chabua, India, Julie Christie is a legendary actress whose career spans over six decades. Her performances have captivated audiences and earned her numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Actress. From her breakthrough role in Darling to her iconic turn in Doctor Zhivago, Christie’s films are …
Apr 10 2024
Inspired after seeing this on Soviet Visuals and Folklore Film Fest‘s #SovietFilmWednesday, this was the first Soviet film I shared a little over three years ago, and it is still one of my favorites. What can I say, I love rain and cats, and the illustrations are beautiful, so this seemed like the perfect starting place for …
Apr 09 2024
Born on this day April 9, 1933, Jean-Paul Belmondo’s distinctive persona and extraordinary talent continue to be celebrated, echoing through the corridors of global cinema even after his passing. Belmondo was not just an actor, he was a phenomenon that epitomized the spirit of a cinematic revolution. He was one of the leading figures of …
Apr 04 2024
Born on this day April 4, 1932, Andrei Tarkovsky, one of the most influential filmmakers in the history of cinema, has made a lasting impression on the art of visual storytelling. His unique cinematic language and philosophical insights have not only challenged the conventions of filmmaking, but they have also redefined it. Tarkovsky’s films, punctuated …
Mar 27 2024
The Cranes Are Flying is a film that has etched its name in the annals of cinema history. Released in 1957, this Soviet film, directed by Mikhail Kalatozov, has transcended time and cultural barriers to become a global cinematic treasure. The film is a poignant tale of love, loss, and the human spirit amidst the …
Mar 23 2024
“I can’t afford to hate anyone. I don’t have that kind of time.” -Akira Kurosawa The world of cinema has witnessed numerous luminaries, but few have etched their names in the annals of film history as profoundly as Akira Kurosawa. The brilliant mind of Akira Kurosawa has revolutionized the realm of filmmaking, contributing significantly to …
Mar 21 2024
Éric Rohmer, the masterful storyteller of French cinema, continues to leave a mark on the world of film even years after his passing. With his subtle yet profound storytelling style, Rohmer’s films are timeless works of art that explore the complexities of human nature and relationships. Throughout his career, Rohmer created a diverse body of …
