Shadows of Our Forgotten Ancestors

(Tini zabutikh predkiv)

BAMPFA Collection Print

featuring

Ivan Mykolaichuk, Larisa Kadochnikova, Tatyana Bestayeva, Spartak Bagashvili,

With this gorgeous picture set among a small Ukrainian sect, 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. 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 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).

FILM DETAILS 
Screenwriter
  • Sergei Parajanov
  • Ivan Chendei
Based On
  • the novel Wild Horses of Fire by M. Kotsiubinsky and on Western Ukrainian folklore

Cinematographer
  • Yuri Ilyenko
Language
  • Ukrainian
  • with English subtitles
Print Info
  • Color
  • 35mm
  • 92 mins
Source
  • BAMPFA
Permission
  • Kino Lorber