The Soviet anti-war epic 'Come and See' (1985), widely regarded as one of the most underrated and brutal World War II films ever made, is now available to stream for free on YouTube. The film, directed by Elem Klimov, was the Soviet Union's entry for Best Foreign Language Film at the 58th Academy Awards but was not accepted. Today, it is hailed as a masterpiece of cinema.
Plot and Themes
Set in 1943 during the Nazi occupation of Belarus, the story follows 16-year-old Flera, who joins the partisan resistance after finding a rifle. The film depicts the horrors of war through a blend of hyper-realism and surrealism, showing the psychological transformation of a boy into a traumatized adult. The official synopsis states: 'At the beginning of the picture Flera is just a teenager. But in the end, having gone through horror and fear, child becomes an adult, frighteningly adult - his face is distorted by senile wrinkles, and there is no room for love in his soul.'
Availability and Reception
The film is streaming on the official Mosfilm YouTube channel alongside other Soviet classics, including works by Andrei Tarkovsky. Critics and audiences have praised 'Come and See' for its unflinching portrayal of war. According to film historian David Thomson, 'It is one of the most powerful anti-war films ever made.' The film holds a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and is frequently listed among the greatest war films of all time.
Why It Matters
'Come and See' offers a unique perspective on World War II, focusing on the Eastern Front and the suffering of civilians. Its free availability on YouTube makes it accessible to a new generation of viewers. The film's raw depiction of atrocity and its impact on youth remains relevant today, serving as a stark reminder of the costs of conflict.
