Watch Last Year's Snow Was Falling

Last Year's Snow Was Falling is a poignant drama film directed by Aleksandr Tatarskiy and starring Stanislav Sadalskiy. Set in 1970s Soviet Union, the movie tells the story of a retired schoolteacher named Ivan, who lives alone in a remote village in the Urals. As the title suggests, the narrative unfolds during the winter season, when the snow covers the landscape and the lives of the characters.

Ivan's quiet and monotonous existence is interrupted by a series of events that challenge his worldview and his sense of self. One day, he discovers that his former student, Sasha, has returned to the village after a long absence. Sasha is now a successful engineer in Moscow and has come back to visit his sick father. Ivan is both surprised and pleased to see Sasha, who he regards as a bright and promising young man. However, their reunion is not without tension, as they have different opinions about the world and the future of their country.

As Ivan and Sasha catch up, they meet a group of young travelers who are on their way to climb a nearby mountain. Among them is a girl, Lena, who catches Sasha's eye. Sasha quickly forms a connection with Lena, who is kind and adventurous. However, their romance is short-lived, as Lena is planning to leave for the city the next day. Sasha is faced with a difficult decision - to stay in the village and pursue a relationship with Lena, or to return to his life in Moscow.

Meanwhile, Ivan is struggling with his own demons. He is haunted by memories of his deceased wife, who died during childbirth many years ago. He also feels disconnected from the younger generation and their aspirations. When the travelers invite Ivan to join them on their mountain climb, he initially refuses, citing his age and lack of fitness. However, after a moment of reflection, he decides to accept the challenge, hoping to prove to himself that he still has the strength and courage to face the unknown.

The mountain climb becomes a transformative experience for all the characters, as they are forced to confront their fears and limitations. In the process, they also discover new aspects of themselves and each other. Ivan realizes that he is not as alone and helpless as he thought and that his life still has meaning and purpose. Sasha learns that his love for Lena is worth fighting for, even if it means making sacrifices and embracing uncertainties.

The climax of the film takes place during a New Year's Eve celebration, where Ivan, Sasha, Lena, and the other villagers come together to commemorate the passing of another year. The snow is falling once again, reminding them of the cyclical nature of life and the inevitability of change. Ivan and Sasha share a moment of reconciliation and mutual respect, acknowledging their differences but also their common humanity. Lena and Sasha embrace each other, surrounded by the warmth of the community. And Ivan, looking at the fireworks in the sky, smiles with a sense of pride and contentment.

Last Year's Snow Was Falling is a film about love, loss, and hope. It captures the beauty and harshness of winter, as well as the complexities of human relationships. It is a tender and poetic portrayal of a bygone era, where personal and political values clash and coexist. Stanislav Sadalskiy delivers a powerful performance as Ivan, conveying both his vulnerability and his resilience. The ensemble cast is also notable for its authenticity and chemistry. Overall, the movie is a must-see for anyone who appreciates a good story and a meaningful message.