The Dawns Here Are Quiet...

A zori zdes tikhie (The Dawns Here Are Quiet, 2015) is based on a book by Boris Vasilyev (1969) and is similar to 1972 Soviet movie of the same name by Stalnislav Rostotskiy. It tells a story of a Russian sergeant stationed in Karelia with a group of young female anti-aircraft gunners. The group moves to intercept a squad of German troops moving through the nearby forests. Russians find themselves badly outnumbered, but they are devoted to stopping the enemy regardless of the cost.

The new version is significantly shorter, uses a different style of flashbacks that tell the background stories of the main characters, and has extended action elements. But in general it remains a faithful remake that often uses the same lines spoken by characters and same shooting angles. New version also has a fair amount of nudity which is not very distracting, but might seem unappealing for a serious war movie. Overall, this is a solid production which is superior to other remakes of Soviet movies that were filmed in Russia in the recent years.

Most of the time, women play supportive roles such as nurses, secretaries, etc. however, during World War II, many women in Russia where enlisted in combat. This movie shows their courage and their sacrifice in fighting Nazi. Definitely worth watching.

Russia, May 1942. Well behind friendly lines a veteran sergeant commands a small outpost, consisting of two anti-aircraft guns. His men are a rowdy, undisciplined bunch and after one incident too many they are taken off his hands. To his surprise, the replacements are women. Soon after, the Germans send a team of crack saboteurs into the area to blow up a vital railway link. The only thing standing between them and completing their mission is the sergeant and his small inexperienced team.

Great war drama. Militarily plausible and very accurate with some good action sequences. Some smaller details are surprisingly well done: meticulous things which make the whole thing so much more believable.

Highly engaging too, as we see the backstories of the main characters. Also shows the sacrifices made by the combatants, their families and communities in order to win the war.

Because of this engagement, it is quite emotional at times.

A great war drama, one definitely worth watching.

I'm assuming that since reviewers are talking about a film, this was re-edited, because the version I saw was a four part mini-series.

The acting was top-notch despite leaning a little to the stereotypical, and the flow of the piece was quite outstanding.

Recommend it highly.

I just watched this movie and I must say this is now in my top 10 war movie of all time. Such warm and in the same time, such harsh story. Actors did amazing job...masterpiece. Sincere recommendation.