Sergei Paradjanov 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. Set in the beautiful but fierce Carpathian mountains, in an environment of overwhelming Christian-pagan rituals, demonology, and constant struggle with overpowering elements, a story of love unfolds. Sensitive, perhaps over-sensitive for his environment, Ivanko is in search of happiness. Nature kills his brother and takes his loved one; man kills his father and sends Ivanko himself to the world beyond, perhaps to realize his wish to be with his beloved forever. Paradjanov succeeded in creating a highly poetic film in the tradition of Dovzhenko. Adopting the great master's use of symbolism and metaphor, and his lyric photography, the director adds a dynamically active camera suited to the requirements of his energetic and temperamental character.-Yvette Biro, PFA '77