Nikita Mikhalkov is one of the greatest director's of our times. His sequel to the Oscar-winning "Burnt by the Sun" is visually spectacular, perfectly acted, artistically spectacular, emotionally moving, and most of all - it is an intelligent film for an intelligent audience. In the time of all- pervading stupidity and vulgarity of mainstream movies and pseudo-intellectual pretentiousness of so called "alternative" cinema, Mikhalkov is one of the few storytellers who can deliver a visually stunning film with emotional depth. His film is not a mere entertainment but a deeply humane and powerful look at our human collective history. This is not a film about Soviet struggle against Nazis. It is a deep look at human tragedy as well as the story of love, courage and the power of human spirit. Do not listen to reviewers who blinded by their political views and personal prejudices, cannot see the power and beauty of this film. This film is worth seeing over and over again. It is a GREAT FILM!