Season 1 • Episode 3
LatestThe story of the dramatic relationship between a father and son. The backdrop is the struggle of Italian patriots against the Austrian occupiers for the unification and independence of Italy.
Acting
Kharitonov's smoldering intensity could power a small village.
Production
Soviet filmmakers faking Italy with sheer chaotic commitment.
Costume
Cardinal robes so lush you'll forget the budget was probably $12.
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
This Soviet adaptation of Ethel Voynich's 1897 novel became unexpected propaganda-adjacent programming, framing anti-imperial revolution as universally noble.
Sergey Bondarchuk, who played Montanelli, had just finished directing the colossal War and Peace and apparently wanted to wear fancy robes and cry instead.
SU
