When Elem Klimov's wife (herself an important director) died suddenly in a road accident he was obviously devastated. This tribute to her reflects his emotional farewell to her through the medium they both loved, and includes a powerful montage of moments from some of her films (like The Ascent)... which in Klimov's hands becomes part of his overwhelming testament of loss. You can almost feel his tears on each frame of this film, which is a moving work of art in it's own right. Larissa is never self indulgent, and manages to be private and public, sad and, somehow, glorious at the same time.
Alongside Come and See, this is probably Klimov's best - and certainly most personal- film.
Alongside Come and See, this is probably Klimov's best - and certainly most personal- film.