One-two, soldiers were going...

One-two, soldiers were going... is an engaging, intense, and insightful war drama film directed by the distinguished Leonid Bykov who also featured as a major character in the movie. The film, released in 1977, boasts remarkable performances by the talented Vladimir Konkin and the ever-enchanting Elena Shanina and delivers a stark message about the grim realities of war, and the shared humanity that binds people in times of hardship.

The narrative of the film is located during the crucial time of World War II and it encapsulates the fateful experiences of a select group of Soviet soldiers painfully caught up in the brutal struggles on the Eastern Front. The film effectively combines elements of drama, tension, suspense, and intermittent relief to paint a vivid picture of unrivaled courage, resilience, and camaraderie during a gruesome period of war.

One-two, soldiers were going... consistently displays the unflinching seriousness and tensions of the wartime conditions. Bykov, who plays the morally complex and emotionally layered character of a senior lieutenant in the Red Army, perfectly captures the essence of these convoluted times, as his character wrestles with questions of duty, morality, and survival moreover linked to his wavering relationship with Konkin's character.

Vladimir Konkin’s character, a hard-boiled, tough as nails soldier, adds immense depth to the narrative. His powerful performance lends a raw, emotive edge to the harrowing tales of conflict and sacrifice, resonating deeply with the viewers. The poignant rapport between Bykov and Konkin forms the edifice of the layered narrative, highlighting the individual struggles and the bonding that develops in the face of shared adversity.

Elena Shanina, on the other hand, gives a wonderfully nuanced performance in the movie, portraying her role with discernment. Her character and her relationships offer a peephole into that time when women had their unique part to play and to confront in that era of extremes. She is the quieter cog in this machine, bringing forth the voices of countless women whose experiences, fears, and hopes during wartime were drowned in the furor of gunfire.

While the drama and personal arcs are central to One-two, soldiers were going..., it’s the depiction of the broader grim realities of war that sets this film apart. The narrative never shies away from showcasing the toll that war takes on the human spirit, the dread of facing an unknown enemy, the longing for home, and the heart-rending price of survival in the faceless march of war.

It is also worth noting the exceptional cinematography that beautifully captures the grim, snowy landscapes, reflecting the harsh conditions of the Eastern Front. The visual imagery effectively elevates the somber tone of the movie, immersing the viewer into the relentless and relentless ambiance of the battlefield. Moreover, the intricate sound design amplifies the visceral core of war-torn surroundings, with every crack of gunfire and distant echo of artillery serving as sobering reminders of war’s palpable presence.

However, despite the grim and grimy exterior, One-two, soldiers were going... inhabits an undeniably humanistic heart. Its narrative subtly underscores the persistence of joy, love, and camaraderie in the direst circumstances, painting a fuller picture of human existence amidst battle and strife. The laughter shared, the friendships formed, the love kindled - all in the shadows of the looming war - serve to remind the viewers that even in times of abject desperation, the human spirit can find moments of light.

One-two, soldiers were going... is not merely a war film. It is a depiction of life’s resilient spirit in face of desolation and despair. It portrays the grim realities of war, but also highlights the everlasting hope and the burning desire to reclaim normalcy that persists within individuals, regardless of the personal and collective costs. This movie is a must-watch for fans of war dramas and those seeking a humanized look into one of history’s most devastating periods.