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...and Life Goes On
On the coast of Yugoslavia lives fisherman Ivo Kralj, his wife Marie, son Vuk, and Ivo's mother in one happy home. Marie, who loves her husband and always looks forward to his return from sea, attracts Nikola, with whom Ivo, out of jealousy, has a scuffle at a dance. After the outbreak of World War I Ivo is mobilized. He ends up in a P.O.W. camp where he is subjected to hard labour. His family then receives news of his death. The years pass and the lonely widow Marie is occasionally visited by her friend Nikola. Ivo's mother would like her to remarry. Soon after the wedding Marie becomes pregnant. Ivo, who has been thought dead, succeeds in escaping the P.O.W. camp where he has spent several years. Upon his arrival home he finds his name on a memorial erected to the victims of the war...
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Plot Summary
In this anti-war drama set during World War I, a young Austrian woman's life is irrevocably changed when her father, a doctor, is sent to the front lines. She falls in love with a Russian prisoner of war, but their relationship is fraught with the dangers and prejudices of wartime. Ultimately, the film explores the tragic consequences of conflict on personal lives and the enduring human spirit.
Critical Reception
G.W. Pabst's 'and Life Goes On' was a significant and somber contribution to the anti-war cinema of the 1930s. It was recognized for its sensitive portrayal of the human cost of conflict, particularly its focus on individual relationships shattered by the war. While critically respected for its thematic depth and Pabst's directorial skill, its commercial success varied, and it is often seen as a precursor to more explicit anti-war statements.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its humane and empathetic depiction of wartime suffering.
Noted for its sensitive handling of inter-national relationships amidst conflict.
Considered a powerful, albeit bleak, anti-war statement from its era.
Google audience: Audience reviews are not readily available for this older film, but contemporary critical reception highlighted its emotional impact and anti-war message.
Fun Fact
The film was G.W. Pabst's first German-language film after a period working in Hollywood, marking his return to European filmmaking.
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