The Cities and the Years Poster

The Cities and the Years 1974

133 min📅 1974-01-21

Aleksandr Zarkhi's sweeping drama *The Cities and the Years (1974)* transports viewers across the turbulent landscapes of Germany and Russia during the early 20th century.

Director: Aleksandr Zarkhi

Cast

Igor Starygin
Igor Starygin
Barbara Brylska
Barbara Brylska
Irina Pechernikova
Irina Pechernikova
Winfried Glatzeder
Winfried Glatzeder
Friedrich-Wilhelm Junge
Helga Göring
Helga Göring
Mykola Hrynko
Mykola Hrynko
Лепендин
Leonid Kulagin
Leonid Kulagin
Sergei Martinson
Sergei Martinson
Georgi Burkov
Georgi Burkov

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Cities and the Years (1974) about?

This epic drama follows artist Andrei Startsev as he grapples with the upheavals of World War I, the Russian Revolution, and the Civil War. Forced to confront profound personal and political challenges, he searches for meaning and belonging in a world torn apart by change.

Who directed The Cities and the Years?

Aleksandr Zarkhi directed *The Cities and the Years*, bringing a nuanced perspective to this historical saga.

Who stars in The Cities and the Years?

The film features Igor Starygin as Andrei Startsev, alongside Barbara Brylska, Irina Pechernikova, and Winfried Glatzeder in key roles.

Is The Cities and the Years (1974) worth watching?

*The Cities and the Years* is a compelling choice for fans of historical dramas with depth and substance. While it may not be widely rated, its ambitious storytelling, strong performances, and evocative themes make it a rewarding experience for those seeking thought-provoking cinema.

How long is The Cities and the Years?

The runtime of *The Cities and the Years* is 133 minutes.

About The Cities and the Years (1974) — Epic historical drama of revolution and artistic resilience

Aleksandr Zarkhi's sweeping drama *The Cities and the Years (1974)* transports viewers across the turbulent landscapes of Germany and Russia during the early 20th century. Based on Konstantin Fedin's novel, this film weaves together the epic turmoil of World War I, the Russian Revolution, and the Civil War, all through the eyes of Andrei Startsev, a young artist struggling to reconcile his ideals with a rapidly changing world. Starring Igor Starygin as the determined protagonist and Barbara Brylska as a pivotal figure in his journey, the movie blends historical gravitas with intimate personal struggles. With its stark black-and-white cinematography and emotionally charged performances, Zarkhi crafts a poignant meditation on identity, displacement, and the search for belonging amid revolution. The film's atmospheric storytelling captures both the grandeur of historical upheaval and the quiet resilience of those caught in its wake.

A masterclass in historical drama, *The Cities and the Years (1974)* stands as a testament to the transformative power of art and endurance. The narrative unfolds like a visual poem, contrasting the chaos of war with the serene introspection of Startsev's artistic soul. As he navigates love, loss, and ideological shifts, the film explores timeless questions about duty and purpose. Zarkhi's direction infuses each scene with a sense of inevitability, making this a compelling watch for fans of period dramas and thought-provoking cinema alike.