With this gorgeous picture set among a small Ukrainian sect, Sergei Paradjanov (1924-1990) "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. 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. Adopting the great master Dovzhenko's use of symbolism and metaphor, and his lyric photography, Paradjanov adds a dynamically active camera suited to the requirements of his energetic and temperamental character." (Yvette Biro) The haunting soundtrack uses chants, folk songs, abstract music, and atonal effects.