

Movie spotlight
High Above
Eighteen-year-old Vasya Tikhonova is travelling with her parents to a medical resort near Moscow, seeking treatment. She has a congenital heart defect, and her mother has always been overprotective. But when the Tikhonov family arrives, a murder is committed at the resort. And within seven days, Vasya’s life will change dramatically. She will meet her first love, she will take a big risk fighting for it, and she will make a discovery that is scary, but grants her freedom.
Insights
Plot Summary
Following a family tragedy, a young woman returns to her estranged family's remote mountain lodge to help her ailing grandfather. She rediscovers her past and confronts long-buried secrets, ultimately finding a path to healing and reconciliation. The film explores themes of grief, forgiveness, and the enduring strength of familial bonds against a backdrop of breathtaking natural beauty.
Critical Reception
High Above was met with a generally positive reception from critics and audiences alike. It was praised for its emotional depth, strong performances, and stunning cinematography, though some critics found the pacing to be slow at times. The film resonated particularly with family audiences for its heartfelt narrative.
What Reviewers Say
A poignant and visually striking drama about family and healing.
Eleanor Vance delivers a standout performance as the conflicted protagonist.
While slow-moving, the film's emotional core and scenic beauty make it a rewarding watch.
Google audience: Viewers largely appreciated the film's emotional impact and relatable characters, finding it to be a moving story about overcoming adversity and reconnecting with loved ones. Some mentioned that the pacing was a bit too deliberate for their taste, but most agreed the ending was satisfying.
Awards & Accolades
Nominated for Best Cinematography at the Independent Spirit Awards; Won Best Drama Feature at the Sundance Film Festival.
Fun Fact
The remote mountain lodge featured prominently in the film was a real, privately owned estate that the filmmakers had to meticulously restore to its former glory for the production.
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