Watch Battle of Leningrad

Battle of Leningrad is a war drama film released in 2019, directed by Alexander Kott. It is set during the Siege of Leningrad in World War II, and it follows a group of survivors as they struggle to survive under the harsh conditions of the blockade. The film revolves around the character of Kate, played by Maria Melnikova, a young woman who is studying to become a nurse. When the war breaks out, she is forced to evacuate to the countryside with her mother and younger sister. However, a series of events separates them, and Kate ends up alone in the city, struggling to survive.

As the siege intensifies, Kate joins a group of firefighters who are trying to put out the fires that break out every night due to the constant bombing. She also meets a young soldier named Mitya, played by Andrey Mironov-Udalov, who is fighting on the front lines. Despite the danger, they fall in love and try to cling to each other amidst the chaos that surrounds them.

The film also explores the lives of other characters, such as a German soldier who has defected to the Russian side, and a group of prisoners who are tasked with digging mass graves for the countless dead. The film does an excellent job of conveying the desperation and suffering that was prevalent during the Siege of Leningrad.

What sets Battle of Leningrad apart from other war films is its focus on the human story. Instead of being an action-packed war film, it is a character-driven drama that delves into the psychological effects of war on individuals. The film manages to depict the horror of the siege while still highlighting moments of kindness and compassion that occurred during this dark time.

The acting in the film is superb, with Maria Melnikova delivering a powerful performance as Kate. Her character is a symbol of resilience and determination, and her portrayal of a young woman struggling to survive in a harsh and unforgiving environment is inspiring. Andrey Mironov-Udalov also gives an excellent performance as Mitya, a soldier who is forced to confront the realities of war.

The film's cinematography is also noteworthy, with the use of muted colors and cold, desolate landscapes capturing the bleakness of the siege. The camera work is immersive, with many scenes shot from the characters' perspective, placing the viewer in the middle of the action.

Overall, Battle of Leningrad is a gripping and emotional film that tells a powerful story about survival and hope in the face of tragedy. It is a reminder of the horrors of war and a tribute to the power of the human spirit. The film is a must-see for anyone interested in the Second World War or the human experience in times of crisis.

Battle of Leningrad is a 2019 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 37 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.5.