Lermontov

Plot

The film chronicles the dramatic life of Russian poet Mikhail Lermontov, beginning in the aftermath of Alexander Pushkin's fatal duel in 1837. It depicts Lermontov's passionate response to Pushkin's death through his controversial poem 'Death of the Poet,' which leads to his exile to the Caucasus region. The narrative follows his military service, his growing literary fame, and his tumultuous relationships with high society. The film portrays Lermontov's internal conflicts between his artistic calling and societal obligations, his romantic entanglements, and his growing disillusionment with Russian aristocracy. The story culminates in the poet's own fatal duel at Pyatigorsk in 1841, echoing the tragic fate of the poet he so admired.

Historical Background

This film was produced during one of the most critical periods of World War II, following the Soviet Union's victory at Stalingrad but while the outcome of the war remained uncertain. The Soviet government deliberately approved cultural projects that celebrated Russian national heritage to boost morale and reinforce cultural identity during the existential crisis. By focusing on Mikhail Lermontov, a romantic poet who embodied the Russian spirit of rebellion and artistic genius, the film served both artistic and propaganda purposes. The timing was particularly significant as 1943 marked the centenary of Lermontov's most productive period. The film's emphasis on Russian cultural greatness was part of Stalin's policy of promoting 'socialist patriotism' that combined Soviet ideology with reverence for pre-revolutionary Russian cultural figures. The production itself, undertaken under wartime conditions, demonstrated the Soviet commitment to maintaining cultural life even amidst the devastation of war.

Making Of

The production of 'Lermontov' faced extraordinary challenges during the height of World War II. Filming took place in Moscow as the city was under threat of German bombardment, with cast and crew often taking shelter during air raids. The Mosfilm studios, where the film was shot, had been partially evacuated but continued limited production. Director Albert Gendelshtein, working from a screenplay he co-wrote, had to contend with severe material shortages, including rationed film stock and limited access to costumes and props. The film's sets were constructed using whatever materials were available, with some period costumes repurposed from pre-war productions. Despite these constraints, the production team managed to create elaborate recreations of 19th-century Russian high society. The cast, including lead actor Aleksey Konsovskiy, reportedly underwent extensive preparation, studying Lermontov's poetry and historical accounts to authentically portray the poet's complex character. The film's cinematographer had to work with limited lighting equipment due to wartime restrictions, resulting in a distinctive visual style that emphasized shadows and contrast.

Visual Style

The cinematography by Boris Volchek employed dramatic chiaroscuro effects that emphasized the romantic and tragic elements of Lermontov's story. Given the wartime limitations on lighting equipment, Volchek developed innovative techniques using available light sources to create atmospheric interiors and moody exteriors. The film's visual style combined realistic depictions of 19th-century Russian settings with expressionistic lighting that reflected the poet's emotional state. The camera work featured careful composition that drew attention to the hierarchical nature of Russian society, often positioning characters within architectural frames that emphasized their social positions. The duel sequence was particularly notable for its dynamic camera movement and tension-building techniques, achieved despite the technical constraints of the period.

Innovations

The film demonstrated remarkable technical achievements given its wartime production constraints. The special effects team created convincing period settings using limited resources, including miniature work for establishing shots of 19th-century Moscow. The makeup department developed techniques to age actors convincingly throughout the film's timeline. The sound recording team overcame significant challenges to capture clear dialogue and music during a time of frequent power interruptions. The film's editing, particularly in the duel sequence, created tension and emotional impact despite the limitations of available equipment. The production also pioneered techniques for simulating candlelight and gaslight effects using available electrical equipment, contributing to the film's period atmosphere.

Music

The musical score was composed by Vano Muradeli, who incorporated themes from Russian romantic music of the 19th century. The soundtrack included musical settings of several of Lermontov's poems, arranged for the film by composer Nikolai Peyko. The music served both atmospheric and narrative functions, with leitmotifs associated with different characters and emotional states. The score made prominent use of Russian folk instruments alongside traditional orchestra, creating a sound that evoked the historical period while remaining accessible to contemporary audiences. The film's sound design was particularly challenged by wartime conditions, with the recording team having to work around air raid sirens and other disruptions. Despite these difficulties, the final soundtrack achieved a rich, layered quality that enhanced the film's emotional impact.

Memorable Scenes

• The opening sequence depicting the news of Pushkin's death spreading through Moscow society, with reactions ranging from genuine grief to political calculation
• Lermontov's passionate recitation of 'Death of the Poet' in a crowded salon, causing outrage among the aristocratic guests
• The exile scene where Lermontov travels to the Caucasus, with sweeping landscapes contrasted against his inner turmoil
• The tense duel sequence, carefully choreographed to show both the ritualistic nature of the confrontation and its tragic inevitability
• The final scene showing Lermontov's body being prepared for burial, with his poetry books scattered around him

What Critics Said

Contemporary Soviet critics praised the film for its patriotic value and artistic merit, particularly highlighting Aleksey Konsovskiy's performance as Lermontov. Pravda and other official newspapers commended the film for celebrating Russian cultural heritage during wartime. Critics noted the film's faithful recreation of 19th-century Russian society and its sensitive handling of Lermontov's poetry. Some reviewers expressed concern about the film's romantic elements but ultimately concluded that they served the greater patriotic purpose. In later years, film historians have recognized 'Lermontov' as an important example of wartime Soviet cinema that successfully balanced artistic ambition with ideological requirements. Modern critics have noted the film's technical achievements given the difficult production circumstances and its role in preserving Russian cultural memory during the war.

What Audiences Thought

The film was well-received by Soviet audiences in 1943, who appreciated its departure from typical wartime fare and its celebration of Russian cultural greatness. Many viewers reportedly found emotional resonance in Lermontov's story during the nation's time of crisis. The film's portrayal of the poet's patriotism and sacrifice aligned with contemporary values while offering an escape into Russia's rich cultural past. Audience letters preserved in Soviet archives indicate that viewers particularly connected with the film's literary aspects and appreciated the opportunity to see one of Russia's great poets brought to life. The film ran successfully in Moscow and other major cities despite wartime conditions, with some theaters reporting sold-out shows. In the years following the war, the film continued to find audiences, particularly among students and literary enthusiasts.

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