When the Trees Were Tall

When The Trees Were Tall, also known as "Kogda derevya byli bolshimi," is a remarkable exploration of the human psyche, social dynamics, and the turbulent times in post-war Soviet Ukraine. This timeless piece from 1962, directed by Lev Kulidzhanov, features a power-packed performance by the stunning Inna Gulaya, along with the versatile Yuriy Nikulin and the multidimensional Leonid Kuravlyov. The movie, Elucidating the tensions between urban and rural lives, also paints a vivid picture of humanity's shared fears, hopes, and aspirations in the face of constant change.

Set against the backdrop of a rapidly industrializing region in Ukraine, the plot unfolds steeped in nostalgia. It revolves around the life of a former collective farm worker, portrayed by Yuriy Nikulin, and his struggle to adapt to the rapid changes in society as he moves to the city from his village. It also follows Inna Gulaya, who was Nikulin's lover in the village and has moved to the city to start life anew.

The movie unfolds from the protagonist's point of view, highlighting how he is torn between his desire to conform to city life and his longing for the serenity of his village. The essence of his inner conflict is beautifully portrayed against the rapidly changing skyline, symbolizing the idea that change is the only constant in life.

Unlike many contemporary movies, When The Trees Were Tall does not merely serve its audience with a straightforward narrative. Instead, the movie provides a refreshing perspective on the bigger picture, showing how the external world's changes impact individual lives. It is an extraordinary window into a period of time marked by upheaval, transition, and metamorphosis.

The narration oscillates between the past and the present, vividly capturing the differences between the two worlds. Nikulin's character sees his past life juxtaposed against his present, resulting in a profound emotional journey that tugs at your heartstrings. Gulaya, on the other hand, brings to life a character that is a symbol of change, resilience, and stoicism.

Inna Gulaya and Yuriy Nikulin share an intense and passionately turbulent on-screen chemistry that highlights their characters' plights while providing emotional depth to their past relationship. Leonid Kuravlyov's performance further adds a layer of complexity, providing a visual allegory for the city's chaos and ruthlessness.

Director Lev Kulidzhanov successfully elicits memorable performances from the cast, making each character relatable and real. Through his subtle yet stirring directorial techniques, he spins a tale that resonates with everyday experiences of change, growth, loss, and love.

The movie thrives on its simplicity yet conveys profound meanings. It brilliantly captures how people grow, transform, and adapt to change, reflecting on the overarching theme of human evolution in the face of relentless societal trends.

The film's cinematography is another standout feature. It seamlessly transitions from the serene and peaceful landscapes of the village to the bustling, impersonal, and chaotic city scenes, effectively accentuating the protagonist's emotional turmoil.

The movie's memorable script is punctuated by powerful dialogues that paint a realistic picture of the characters' complex emotions and the tumultuous times they live in. Each line is carefully crafted to pull viewers deeper into the story, making it an immersive cinematic experience.

The hauntingly beautiful and timeless music further enhances the emotional journey, connecting the audience to the story on a more profound level. It serves as a captivating backdrop, adding to the nostalgic vibe and complementing the movie's thought-provoking narration.

In essence, When The Trees Were Tall is a poignant narrative that delves deep into the human soul's complexities, unraveling fear, nostalgia, love, and the inherent need to evolve. It is a heartfelt portrayal of human resilience against the ravages of time and change and stands as a testament to classic Russian cinema's depth and richness. It's a truly immersive experience that stays with you, long after the end credits have rolled. A must-watch for anyone who appreciates poignant cinema that goes beyond mere drama and entertainment to touch upon deeper aspects of life and societal changes.