Come and See (1985)

VHS CASE/ SIDE

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Length of film:  142 Minutes

Rated: 15

Genre: War, Drama, Thriller

Director: Elem Kilmov

Starring: Aleksey Kravchenko, Olga Mironova, Liubomiras Laucevicius, Vladas Bagdonas, Jüri Lumiste

IMDB Rank: 8.3 /10

Part 1 Time:  66 Minutes

Part 2 Time:  76 Minutes

*** In DVD format The Russian Cinema Council released the film in two separate parts.

Where does the first part end? Flyora (Aleksey Kravchenko) walks off with Rubezh’s (Vladas Bagdonas) group as they attempt to get food supplies for the villagers.

Final line of dialogue on the first part: “No it’s my fault. Mine.” Flyora states.

First line of dialogue on the second part: Flyora rejoins a small Soviet partisan group led by Rubezh. They carry a Hitler statue (made from human remains) with them, “Big, round and bright,” states Rubezh.

How jarring is it when the first part ends? Somewhat, since joining the resistance, Flyora has experienced the devastation and brutality of war, both physically and mentally. With his family slaughtered and his village destroyed, Flyora is on the brink of insanity.

Which part is better? The film showcases the brutality of war and is quite uncomfortable to watch at times due to the barbaric nature of the characters. Part two outshines the first half as it depicts the worst that humanity is capable of (i.e., the 20 minute church scene). This film is not for the faint-hearted and really makes you wonder how such atrocities could even be possible.

Academy Awards: None