In this gorgeous film, set among a small Ukrainian sect, Sergei Parajanov “was the first to indicate the degree to which folklore and local artistic tradition could once again become a source of visual wealth in Soviet national cinema. In the beautiful but fierce Carpathian Mountains, an environment of overwhelming Christian-pagan rituals, demonology, and constant struggle with overpowering elements, a story of love unfolds. Adopting the great master [Oleksandr] Dovzhenko’s use of symbolism and metaphor, and his lyric photography, Parajanov adds a dynamically active camera suited to the requirements of his energetic and temperamental character” (Yvette Biro).