Come and See

Come and See is like watching the most horrible nightmare you could imagine brought to life. This film is one of the greatest horror movies of all time because, regardless of already being shot like other horror films, these events were real. Truly a masterpiece. 10/10

"Come and See" (1985), directed by Elem Klimov, is more than a war film; it is an unrelenting odyssey through the psychological horrors of war. This Soviet masterpiece strips away the veneer of heroic war narratives, laying bare the raw, unfiltered trauma experienced by those caught in the crossfire. The film's impact is a product of its psychological depth, striking cinematography, and gritty realism, each element contributing to a harrowing yet profound viewing experience.

### Psychological Effects

At the heart of "Come and See" is the psychological journey of its young protagonist, Florya (played by Aleksei Kravchenko). The film begins with Florya eagerly joining the Soviet partisan movement, filled with naïve enthusiasm and a desire for heroism. However, his transformation over the course of the film is a disturbing descent into the abyss of human suffering.

Klimov's direction meticulously captures Florya's psychological disintegration. The young boy’s initial innocence is quickly eroded by the relentless brutality of war. One of the most haunting aspects of "Come and See" is how it portrays the psychological toll through Florya’s facial expressions and physical appearance. Kravchenko’s performance is astonishingly raw; his wide-eyed terror and the gradual hardening of his features convey more than words ever could. By the film's end, Florya’s youthful visage is almost unrecognizable, reflecting the deep scars left by his traumatic experiences.

The use of surreal, dream-like sequences amplifies the psychological horror. These scenes blur the line between reality and nightmare, reflecting the disorienting impact of trauma. For instance, when Florya is trapped in the swamp, the distorted sounds and visuals create a sense of drowning in his own fear and despair. This technique immerses the viewer in Florya’s psychological state, making his trauma palpable and immediate.

### Cinematography

The cinematography of "Come and See," crafted by Aleksei Rodionov, is pivotal in creating its immersive and harrowing atmosphere. The film employs a stark, almost documentary-style realism that brings the horrors of war into sharp focus. This realism is enhanced by the decision to shoot with natural light, which lends a visceral, gritty texture to the visuals.

Rodionov’s use of long takes and tracking shots is particularly effective. These techniques not only heighten the tension but also allow the audience to become fully immersed in Florya's journey. One memorable example is the extended tracking shot through the burning village. The camera follows Florya in real-time, capturing the chaos and devastation around him. This continuous shot creates a sense of unrelenting horror, as there is no respite from the carnage.

The film also utilizes extreme close-ups to convey the emotional intensity of the characters’ experiences. These close-ups are often disconcerting, placing the audience uncomfortably close to the characters' suffering. The frequent use of Florya’s point of view shots further immerses the viewer in his psychological state, making his trauma feel immediate and personal.

### Gritty Realism

"Come and See" is renowned for its unflinching portrayal of war’s brutality. Unlike many war films that sanitize violence or focus on heroism, Klimov’s film confronts the audience with the grotesque reality of conflict. The film’s title itself, derived from the Book of Revelation, invites the viewer to witness the apocalyptic destruction wrought by war.

One of the film’s most disturbing sequences is the massacre of a Belarusian village by Nazi forces. The depiction of this atrocity is harrowingly detailed, showing the systematic and sadistic nature of the violence. Klimov does not shy away from the horror; instead, he forces the viewer to confront it head-on. This relentless depiction of violence serves as a powerful indictment of war, stripping away any romantic notions and exposing its true, horrific nature.

The film’s sound design further enhances its gritty realism. The cacophony of war—the deafening explosions, the piercing screams, and the haunting silence that follows—is captured with visceral intensity. One of the most striking uses of sound is in the aftermath of explosions, where the sudden absence of noise mirrors the numbing shock experienced by the characters. This attention to auditory detail heightens the sense of immersion, making the horrors of war feel inescapably real.

Moreover, Klimov’s commitment to authenticity extends to the performances and production design. Aleksei Kravchenko underwent a grueling filming process, which included genuine physical hardships, to convey the realistic transformation of Florya. The production design, from the ravaged landscapes to the authentic costumes, meticulously recreates the period, adding to the film’s harrowing authenticity.

### Conclusion

"Come and See" is a film that transcends conventional war cinema, offering a profound and deeply disturbing exploration of the psychological and physical ravages of war. Its unflinching realism, combined with masterful cinematography and an intense focus on psychological trauma, creates an experience that is both harrowing and unforgettable.

Elem Klimov's vision, brought to life through Aleksei Kravchenko’s remarkable performance and Aleksei Rodionov's haunting cinematography, invites viewers to confront the true horrors of war. The film's impact is not just in its depiction of violence, but in its exploration of the lasting psychological scars left on those who endure it. "Come and See" is a powerful reminder of the devastating human cost of conflict, a cinematic experience that remains deeply resonant and profoundly unsettling.

For those who have the fortitude to endure its brutal realism, "Come and See" offers a searing and unforgettable look into the abyss of war, making it a truly essential piece of cinema.

Might be the most difficult WWII movie to sit through. Harrowing, unflinching, and absolutely terrifying in its portrayal of the Third Reich’s reign of terror in Soviet territory. There is a lot you can’t unsee from this.

Sickening

best anti war film i’ve ever seen just because it was so horrific

ts left me numb