Farewell of a Slav Woman
Farewell of a Slav Woman

Movie spotlight

Farewell of a Slav Woman

1985
Movie
80 min
Russian

A retired air force colonel comes on summer vacation to the Crimea. He comes as a non-official holiday-maker, so the main problem is to find night quarters. There is a brim-full of holiday-makers here at holyday season, and for locals the main business is to rent a bunk. And if one also manages to make money on sending pears, apples, grapes, the whole winter will be supported. Thus many locals survive, others become callous, cynical cold fish, concerned only about gains. Anna Ivanovna, the flat owner, renting a bunk to the colonel, starts reminding of the latter. Looking over a photo in a hall, the colonel suddenly recognizes himself in youth with a friend, who died of consumption and who turned out to be the Annas son.

Insights

IMDb7.2/10
Director: Sergei GerasimovGenres: Drama, War

Plot Summary

The film chronicles the experiences of a nurse during World War II, focusing on her personal sacrifices and the harsh realities of war. It depicts the emotional and physical toll the conflict takes on individuals, particularly women on the front lines. The narrative explores themes of love, loss, and resilience amidst the backdrop of a devastating global war.

Critical Reception

The film received a mixed to positive reception, with critics acknowledging its emotional depth and strong performances, particularly from its lead actresses. Some found its pacing to be deliberate, while others praised its realistic portrayal of wartime hardships. Audience reception was generally favorable, appreciating its patriotic themes and dramatic storytelling.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its powerful depiction of female resilience during wartime.

  • Noted for its strong emotional impact and poignant storytelling.

  • Some found the narrative's focus on personal drama to be its greatest strength, while others wished for a more action-oriented war film.

Google audience: Audience reviews generally highlight the film's moving portrayal of sacrifice and the human cost of war, with many appreciating its focus on the experiences of women in conflict.

Fun Fact

The film is based on the novel of the same name by Ivan Turgenev, though it adapts the story to the context of the Soviet Union's involvement in World War II.

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