Having lived in a Communist country as a child, this movie was not easy for me to watch. The presence of the ruling party is everywhere in this story. It's in the hearts of some, the minds of others; even casting its shadow on the innocence of childhood. It is in the air as people communicate in measured tones.
Nikita Mikhalkov, and his daughter, Nadezhda, turn in great performances, as does Oleg Menshikov as Mitya. For comic relief, Vladimir Ilyin's portrayal of a very amusing Kirik is impressive. Art direction, score, and cinematography round out a good production.
Nikita Mikhalkov, and his daughter, Nadezhda, turn in great performances, as does Oleg Menshikov as Mitya. For comic relief, Vladimir Ilyin's portrayal of a very amusing Kirik is impressive. Art direction, score, and cinematography round out a good production.