Burnt by the Sun

As heartbreaking as cinema can be! I saw this first when living in Russia, where it is considered a national treasure for its portrayal of how Stalinism destroyed Russian culture and their way of life. The contrast of the gorgeous countryside with military incursions, and the tenderness of family love with absolute betrayal is something I don't think will ever be matched in cinema again.

The combination of joyous pandemonium with political commentary (and a touch of magic realism) is very Kusturica, but toned down. The sense of joy gradually drains out of the film as Stalinist oppression looms heavier and heavier over the lives of this happy family. The politics and allegories are a little simplistic and Mikhalkov gives himself too plum a role: Colonel Kotov is just too likeable NOT to sympathize with. But overall I thought it was a good film, particularly during the first half.

like cinema paradiso, it's pretty much the definition of "academy award for best foreign film" but it's commendable enough as a manipulative (let's not kid ourselves) melodrama and doesn't show signs of mikhalkov's declining grasp of logic and reality (burnt by the sun 2)

a Great Purge drama the whole family can enjoy!

Unfortunately I have little memory of this except for the fact that I didn't like it.

# 842

885

Fascinating tale of Russian history. A little slow for the most part.

#771

A must for those interested in Soviet Russia

o7 *when a comrade steals your girl so you gotta fabricate charges against him to great purge his ass* o7