Set in wartime Belarus, "The Ascent" is a stark commentary on war and its effects on men and society. A ragged band of partisans is desperately trying to make their way over snow covered fields and through bleak forests, while being hunted by Nazi forces. Two of the men, Sotnikov and Rybak, are chosen to attempt a dangerous traverse of the countryside to find food. They come in contact with others who are barely hanging on to life, some who have made hard decisions about loyalty, and those who would kill them.
This is a gripping story that is sometimes difficult to watch. And it asks the viewer to judge the two protagonists, who take different paths.
Some see strong religious imagery in the film, but its central themes are about patriotism, which has perhaps become fetishized, and the consequence of fear. It asks the viewer to share the terrible situations of these victims of war and to decide which is a hero, if either. Director Larisa Shepitko expertly depicts people in survival mode, where there are no good choices.
Because of its content, this film was not seen for about twenty years. Now it can be appreciated for its effective portrayal of war's inhumanity.
This is a gripping story that is sometimes difficult to watch. And it asks the viewer to judge the two protagonists, who take different paths.
Some see strong religious imagery in the film, but its central themes are about patriotism, which has perhaps become fetishized, and the consequence of fear. It asks the viewer to share the terrible situations of these victims of war and to decide which is a hero, if either. Director Larisa Shepitko expertly depicts people in survival mode, where there are no good choices.
Because of its content, this film was not seen for about twenty years. Now it can be appreciated for its effective portrayal of war's inhumanity.