Khozhdenie po mukam

A superb historical drama in all respects. Amazing cinematography, sets, music, costumes, epic scenes that transfer us to Russia in this turbulent time of its history. As it's based on the book by Alexey Tolstoy, credits for the story and the characters should be given to him. What captured me was the depth and realistic depiction of the heroes. Their conflicting emotions and responses to the unexpected and sudden turn of events that are out of their control. It is not just a "love story" as some viewers have called it; that would be degrading to the story itself. It is a story about Russia, the people who claiming / believing they love it did horrible things in the name of this love. It is not a coincidence that all the characters, who represent all different social classes and interests, say the same: "We do it for Russia", "We have to save the motherland", "We need a new Russia". All well-said and well-intended but with the consequences that history showed this "love" had.