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The Tale of Tsar Saltan
The story is about three sisters. The youngest is chosen by Tsar Saltan to be his wife. He orders the other two sisters to be his royal cook and weaver. They become jealous of their younger sister. When the tsar goes off to war, the tsaritsa gives birth to a son, Prince Gvidon (Gvidón.) The older sisters arrange to have the tsaritsa and the child sealed in a barrel and thrown into the sea. The sea takes pity on them and casts them on the shore of a remote island, Buyan. The son, having quickly grown while in the barrel, goes hunting. He ends up saving an enchanted swan from a kite bird. The swan creates a city for Prince Gvidon to rule, but he is homesick, so the swan turns him into a mosquito to help him. In this guise, he visits Tsar Saltan's court, where he stings his aunt in the eye and escapes. Back in his realm, the swan gives Gvidon a magical squirrel. But he continues to pine for home, so the swan transforms him again, this time into a fly.
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Plot Summary
In a kingdom ruled by Tsar Saltan, a mother and her two daughters are banished to an island after the Tsar overhears a prophecy suggesting one of them will bear a hero. Years later, the Tsar's son, Prince Guidon, who has grown up on the island, longs to see his father's land. With the help of magical swans, he transforms himself and the island to attract his father's attention and uncover the truth about his family's banishment.
Critical Reception
While specific critical reception from 1943 is scarce, Alexander Ptushko's film is widely recognized as a visually inventive and enchanting fairy tale adaptation. It is celebrated for its pioneering special effects and imaginative storytelling, which captivated audiences then and continues to be appreciated for its artistry and charm.
What Reviewers Say
Visually stunning and imaginative fairy tale adaptation.
Showcases early pioneering special effects for its time.
A charming and engaging story for all ages.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this specific 1943 film is not readily available, but it is generally regarded as a classic Soviet fantasy film.
Fun Fact
Director Alexander Ptushko was renowned for his groundbreaking work in visual effects, often using innovative techniques like matte paintings, miniatures, and double exposures to create the magical worlds in his fairy tale films, influencing a generation of filmmakers.
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