one truly exceptional movie that colorfully depict situation in soviet russia in 1950 . not only this movie show all the stupidity of communist ideology ( and any ideology in particular ) and it also in vivid manner show how far would mother do to protect it child . numerous personal drama and love affair of the two main character and general tension that could be felt in the air and make this movie so exciting . remarkable act skill of the main character make this film one of the most impressive i have ever see . for catherine deneuve and oleg menshikov and sandrine bonnaire this be probably one of the best role of their life . try to get this movie and do not make pop corn you will need handkerchief instead .