When God said 'thou shalt not,' He forgot to mention what happens when your heart says 'but...'
The heroine of this story, a young woman, considers herself a believer and tries to live according to the commandments. But an unexpected meeting turns for her into love for a married man, and her feeling does not remain unanswered. However, a man belongs to a culture where the presence of a mistress is not forbidden, and even encouraged, while divorce is extremely negatively perceived. He sees no problem in starting a second family. The heroine will have a harsh choice between her faith and her beloved. And the most important thing is that she will have to find out whether she can make such a choice on her own, or everything is predetermined from above.
Acting
Luchinina's silent agony speaks volumes
Direction
Afanasieva lets discomfort breathe
Director
Mariya Afanasieva
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
The film ignited debate in post-Soviet Orthodox communities about whether it critiques or validates religious patriarchy.
Afanasieva reportedly shot two endings; the chosen one suggests Maria's 'choice' remains ambiguous by design.
RU
