Cast
View AllVasili Zajchikov
as Commissar Vasili Martinov
Oleg Zhakov
as Regiment Commander Draudin
Georgi Bushuyev
as Artyom Balashov
Raisa Yesipova
as Mademoiselle
Nikolay Ivakin
as A Red Army Soldier
Pyotr Kirillov
as Seaman Valentin Bezprozvanny
E. Gunn
as Seaman Anton Karabash
Mikhail Gurinenko
as Misha, the cabin boy
Fyodor Seleznyov
as A White Army Soldier
Pyotr Sobolevsky
as A Lieutenant
Vadim Gusev
as Yunga
Crew
Director
- Efim Dzigan
Writer
- Vsevolod Vishnevsky
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, We Are from Kronstadt examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Efim Dzigan brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1936, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of We Are from Kronstadt took approximately 8 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 89 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 148 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 149 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1936, when this film was released:
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While We Are from Kronstadt shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Red Tent, which focuses more on action than character development, We Are from Kronstadt subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Cross of Iron and Journeys from Berlin/1971 explore similar territory, We Are from Kronstadt stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: May 1, 1936
- Runtime: 1h 29m