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"Commissar"
1967-87
Directed by Alexandr Askoldov
One of the most
important Soviet films, this indictment against anti-Semitism was Askoldov's first and
last feature film. A tale of a Red Army commissar who finds herself waylaid by an
unexpected pregnancy. She lives with a Jewish family while awaiting the arrival of
her baby, and finds herself softened by family life, while civil war rages around them.
Shortly after its completion, Askoldov was fired and the film locked away. Now
finally released, the film's "artistic and emotional impact is formidable
Askoldov
has mastered a poetic style" (Sight and Sound).
"Commissar" was well-received at the Berlin International Film
Festival, winning several awards including a Silver Berlin Bear. Russian with
English subtitles.
110 minutes.

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