Steps in the Sky
Steps in the Sky

Movie spotlight

Steps in the Sky

1977
Movie
84 min
Romanian

Ion is the head of workers' team who install high-voltage lines in the mountains. He discovers a design error that could put many lives in jeopardy and knows that the chief designer is Valeria, his ex-girlfriend from adolescent days.

Insights

IMDb7.0/10
Director: Peter LilienthalGenres: Drama, Crime

Plot Summary

A former Fascist collaborator living in hiding in South America is forced to confront his past when his son, who believes him to be a hero, decides to visit him. The son's idealized image is shattered as he uncovers the dark secrets of his father's wartime activities. This confrontation leads to a tense and emotionally charged examination of guilt, memory, and the burden of history.

Critical Reception

Steps in the Sky received critical acclaim for its sensitive portrayal of a complex moral dilemma and its nuanced exploration of post-war guilt. The performances, particularly Mario Adorf's, were widely praised for their depth and authenticity. The film was lauded for its intellectual rigor and its refusal to offer easy answers, making it a significant work in German cinema.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its compelling exploration of a former Nazi's hidden life and the confrontation with his son.

  • Lauded for the powerful and nuanced performance by Mario Adorf.

  • Acknowledged for its unflinching look at guilt, memory, and the legacy of wartime actions.

Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews for this film is not readily available.

Fun Fact

The film was entered into the 27th Berlin International Film Festival.

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