Frost

Frost, released in 2017, is a profoundly engaging independent drama, directed by Sharunas Bartas, an acclaimed Lithuanian filmmaker renowned for his distinctive storytelling approach. This thought-provoking film takes its viewers on a poignant journey, as it delves deep into the human condition and speaks of human connections in times of crisis and uncertainty. As a cinematic work, it effortlessly portrays the complexities of human emotions, emphasizing the significant attributes of moral integrity and empathy.

In this film, Mantas Janciauskas and Lyja Maknaviciute portray a young Lithuanian couple, Rokas and Inga, shedding light on their voyage into the heart of war-torn Ukraine. Both phenomenally display the journey of their characters from their insulated lives to the brutal realities of war. Their journey starts with a humanitarian mission across Europe, completely unaware of the experiences that await them. Frost centralizes their transformation – not just spatially, across nations, but emotionally, mentally, and psychologically as they grapple with harsh realities.

Rokas, portrayed by Mantas Janciauskas, is an everyday man whose initial passive concern about world issues suddenly transforms into active participation when he undertakes a mission to deliver aid to the war-struck Ukraine. Inga, portrayed by Lyja Maknaviciute, accompanies Rokas in this journey, her portrayal of the character is impressively profound, presenting a complex dimensions of womanhood, love, commitment, and courage. Along their drive through the snow-covered landscape, they encounter various individuals who shape their perceptions of war, survival, and human nature; each meeting a unique lesson about the stark truths they previously were oblivious to.

Andrzej Chyra plays the role of a seasoned war reporter. He delivers an astounding performance, reflecting on the toughness required in coping with war times. His encounters with the young couple serve as a wake-up call and a significant turning point in their journey, altering their perceptions and ideas of humanitarianism and conflict.

The film's narrative pivots around the protagonists’ transformation, set against the stark realities of war, but it also provides a distinctive comment on how regular individuals perceive global issues. The cinematography is handled by cinematographer Eitvydas Doskus with a level of sophistication that does justice to the film’s theme. The sweeping landscapes of frost-covered Ukraine allowing an aesthetic side to co-exist with the visceral.

The film cleverly uses subtle symbols and plot layers to illustrate a gloomy picture of despair and dread, human suffering, and resilience in the war zone. Yet, it never loses sight of hope, which seems to be hidden in the frosty landscapes and the characters' heroic acts. Bartas demands participation from the audience, inviting them to peel back the layers, connect the dots, and immerse themselves in the emotional and psychological evolution of its characters.

The soundscape of Frost is as compelling as its visuals, with a haunting score that adds depth to the narrative. Every single note played in the film seems to carry the weight of the unfolding drama. Music and silence interweave to create a melancholic melody that holds the viewers spellbound.

Frost portrays not just the bleakness of war but also shines a light on the strength of human spirit that manifests in the most adverse circumstances. It doesn't just showcase the gruesomeness of war or the division between nations, but instead focuses on how individual paths can cross, stirring seismic transformations in their worldviews.

Sharunas Bartas skillfully uses the movie as a canvas to discuss the more significant topics of human resilience, compassion, and the gritty realities of war-torn nations. At the same moment, Frost brings into focus the macroscopic lens of war, politics, and dissent, seen through the microscopic perspective of personal stories, anxieties, and hopes.

Frost is indeed a masterpiece that leaves the audience contemplating the realities of war, humanitarianism, resilience, and most importantly, the collective responsibility we share as global citizens. Through this movie, director Bartas proffers a cinematic experience that's not just thought-provoking but also emotionally stirring, thereby inviting the viewers to temporarily step away from the privileges of peace and confront the bitter truth about human conflict.