Detailed Summary
Introduction and Setting
Come and See is a Soviet war drama film directed by Elem Klimov. The film is set in Belarus during World War II and is a harrowing depiction of the Nazi occupation and the atrocities committed against the civilian population. The story follows a young boy named Flyora as he experiences the horrors of war.
The Story Unfolds
Flyora Joins the Partisans
The film begins with Flyora (Aleksei Kravchenko), a teenager living in a rural village in Belarus, who digs up an old rifle and joins the local partisans, hoping to fight against the Nazis. His mother and sisters are devastated by his decision, fearing for his safety.
The Horrors of War
Flyora’s journey quickly descends into a nightmare as he witnesses the brutal realities of war. After being left behind by the partisans, he meets Glasha (Olga Mironova), a young girl also caught in the chaos. Together, they navigate a landscape of destruction and death.
The Village Massacre
One of the film’s most disturbing sequences involves the massacre of an entire village by the Nazis. Flyora and Glasha are captured and witness the villagers being herded into a barn, which is then set on fire. The Nazis and their collaborators revel in the destruction, and Flyora’s innocence is shattered by the sheer brutality.
The Climax and Resolution
The Partisans’ Revenge
In the film’s climactic moments, Flyora joins the partisans in an attack against the Nazi forces. They manage to capture some of the perpetrators, and the partisans exact brutal revenge. Flyora is forced to confront the depths of human cruelty and his own capacity for violence.
The Final Moments
The film ends with a powerful and surreal sequence in which Flyora encounters a portrait of Adolf Hitler in a mud puddle. He repeatedly shoots the portrait, and the film intercuts with archival footage of the Nazi era, running in reverse. This symbolizes Flyora’s desperate desire to undo the horrors he has witnessed and experienced.
Movie Ending
The film concludes with Flyora, now aged beyond his years, walking away from the scene of destruction. The ending underscores the devastating impact of war on the human spirit, particularly on the young and innocent.
Post-Credits Scene
There are no post-credits scenes in Come and See.
Type of Movie
Come and See is a war drama that combines elements of historical fiction and psychological horror to convey the atrocities of World War II from a child’s perspective.
Cast
- Aleksei Kravchenko as Flyora
- Olga Mironova as Glasha
- Liubomiras Laucevičius as Kosach
- Vladas Bagdonas as Rubezh
- Jüri Lumiste as Nazi Officer
Film Music and Composer
The film’s score was composed by Oleg Yanchenko, whose music adds to the film’s haunting and oppressive atmosphere.
Filming Locations
Come and See was filmed on location in Belarus, with the use of authentic rural settings enhancing the film’s realism.
Awards and Nominations
Come and See received several prestigious awards, including:
- Moscow International Film Festival: Won the FIPRESCI Prize and the Golden Prize.
- Venice Film Festival: Elem Klimov was honored for his contribution to cinema.
Behind the Scenes Insights
- The film’s production faced numerous challenges, including the use of real ammunition in some scenes to capture authentic reactions from the actors.
- Aleksei Kravchenko’s performance as Flyora is widely praised, and he underwent significant physical and emotional strain during filming.
- Director Elem Klimov intended for the film to be an unflinching portrayal of war’s horrors, based on first-hand accounts from survivors.
Inspirations and References
The film is based on the novel I Am from the Fiery Village by Ales Adamovich, who co-wrote the screenplay with Klimov. The story draws from real events and testimonies of those who lived through the Nazi occupation of Belarus.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
The final cut closely follows Klimov’s vision. Some deleted scenes and additional content are available in special editions, providing further context and depth to the story.
Book Adaptations and Differences
The film is based on the novel I Am from the Fiery Village by Ales Adamovich. While the film remains faithful to the book’s themes and events, it emphasizes the psychological impact of war through its visual and auditory style.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- Flyora and Glasha’s journey through the war-torn countryside.
- The horrific massacre of the village, depicting the inhumanity of the Nazi forces.
- Flyora’s encounter with the Nazi officers and his moral and emotional breakdown.
- The surreal final sequence with the portrait of Hitler and the archival footage.
Iconic Quotes
- “You must see it with your own eyes!” – A partisan to Flyora, emphasizing the need to witness the atrocities.
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The use of reverse archival footage in the final sequence symbolizes the desire to undo the past and the irreversible nature of the atrocities committed.
- The film’s title, Come and See, is a reference to the Book of Revelation, highlighting the apocalyptic nature of the events depicted.
Trivia
- The film’s original title in Russian, Idi i Smotri, translates to “Go and See,” referencing a passage from the Book of Revelation.
- Come and See was intended to be Elem Klimov’s final film, as he felt he had nothing more to say about the horrors of war after completing it.
- The film’s realistic depiction of war’s brutality has led to its status as one of the most powerful anti-war films ever made.
Why Watch?
Come and See is a harrowing and unflinching portrayal of the horrors of war, offering a powerful and emotionally devastating viewing experience. Its realistic depiction, strong performances, and profound themes make it a must-watch for those interested in historical and war dramas.
Director’s Other Movies
Elem Klimov also directed:
- Agony (1981)
- Farewell (1983)
- Rasputin (1981)
