The Ascent (—)

The Ascent is a 1977 Soviet psychological drama film directed by Larisa Shepitko, based on the novella by Vasily Bykov. The film follows two Soviet partisans, Sotnikov and Rybak, who are sent on a mission to gather food for their unit during World War II. As they navigate the harsh winter landscape and face occupation by German forces, the narrative delves deep into themes of moral choice, cowardice, and heroism under extreme pressure.

Starring Boris Plotnikov as the ailing but morally upright Sotnikov and Vladimir Gostyukhin as the pragmatic and survival-focused Rybak, the film is renowned for its stark black-and-white cinematography and unflinching portrayal of human nature. It was the first feature film from the director Larisa Shepitko and has since been recognized as a masterpiece of Soviet cinema, earning an award at the Venice Film Festival and inclusion in the Criterion Collection.

• The film won the Silver Lion for Best Director at the 34th Venice International Film Festival.
• Larisa Shepitko's direction was heavily influenced by her desire to explore the psychological depths of characters rather than just the physical hardships of war.
• The novella by Vasily Bykov served as the screenplay, adapted closely to preserve the internal monologues and moral dilemmas of the protagonists.
• Boris Plotnikov received critical acclaim for his portrayal of Sotnikov, which emphasized physical weakness contrasted with spiritual strength.