In Orthodox Christianity there is a theme of bright sorrow -- the paradox that through suffering, some may find redemption and courage to do whatever good may remain possible even in impossible situations. This film is based on the true story of such redemption and courage during the World War II Nazi occupation of.the Pskov district, near Russia's border with Latvia, The central character, an Orthodox priests sent to serve the faithful in a remote village, is scorned by both the occupying forces and communist partisan guerillas. Under constant threat, he and his wife sacrifice themselves to bring whatever comfort they can to their community, feeding the hungry, confronting evil, and caring for a growing family of orphans. The sorrow is real and unrelenting, often overpowering the underlying sense of redemption. The cinematography is quite beautiful. However, to an English speaker, the subtitles could be confusing. To understand the narrative it helps to bring at least some prior knowledge of the plight of Orthodox Christians under Stalin's totalitarian regime.
Review of Pop
