Cast
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Nikolai Rybnikov
as Kolchin
Vladimir Sedov
as Sharov
Svetlana Svetlichnaya
as Nina Kolchina
Evgeniy Evstigneev
as main constructor
Oleg Zhakov
as Basargin
Sergei Blinnikov
as constructor
Georgiy Kulikov
as constructor
Nikolay Pogodin
as test-pilot
Sergey Bobrov
as constructor
Pavel Tarasov
as old constructor
Lev Zolotukhin
as Gordeyev
Pyotr Shcherbakov
as test-pilot
Vladimir Rautbart
as constructor
Ivan Ryzhov
as flight inspector
Lev Barashkov
as test-pilot
Crew
Director
- Tatyana Lioznova
Writer
- Leonid Agranovich
- Anatoliy Agranovskiy
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, They Conquer the Skies 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 Tatyana Lioznova 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 1963, 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 They Conquer the Skies took approximately 16 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 97 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 125 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 63 unique compositions.
- The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1963, when this film was released:
- Social and cultural revolution was transforming Western societies.
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While They Conquer the Skies 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 Preacher's Wife, which focuses more on action than character development, They Conquer the Skies offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Love Don't Co$t a Thing and Wildflower explore similar territory, They Conquer the Skies stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: August 26, 1963
- Runtime: 1h 37m
