Alexei and the Spring (2002)
"Alexei to izumi" (original title)

180 kilometers down wind of Chernobyl, the village of Budische was evacuated except for 55 older residents who refused to leave and one young man, Alexei who wanted to stay with his parents... See full summary »

Director:

Seiichi Motohashi

2 wins.

Storyline

180 kilometers down wind of Chernobyl, the village of Budische was evacuated except for 55 older residents who refused to leave and one young man, Alexei who wanted to stay with his parents. This is a simple story of life in Budische 14 years later, as told in voiceover by Alexei. The Belarus village is built around a common spring from which everyone draws water, toting it back to their homes, and to which the women walk to do their laundry outside.

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Genres:

Documentary

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Details

Country:

Japan

Language:

Russian

Release Date:

20 January 2002 (Japan)

Also Known As:

Alexei and the Spring

Company Credits

Production Co:

Pole Pole Times

Technical Specs

Runtime:

104 min

Color:

Color

User Reviews

Excellent view on farm life after a nuclear disaster

After viewing this film for the second time, one comes to realize just how dependent we are on the convenience's we have at our disposal here in the U.S. It is hard to believe that we are in the 21st century and people are still living in the manner of those depicted in the film. Obviously the spring has not been affected by the nuclear disaster of the immediate area. One wonders how they are going to survive if any thing happens to Alexei. It's obvious that these people have endured hardships beyond belief, yet they seem more than contented with their way of life. The scenery is simple, yet beautiful. No attempts at trying to hide the reality of what these simple farm people must endure to stay alive. The average age of the villagers is 71 years old, yet looking at them gives you the impression that they are older. The life they lead has taken a toll on how they look. Watch the women as they wash clothing in a ice cold spring. One woman is shown bending over at the waist while the snow flakes cover her back. I tried to locate the film to buy, but it wasn't for sale by any of the suppliers I buy from. I will film this heart warming story the next time Sundance shows it on television. I wholly recommend watching this film. It really gives an insight into how people survive in Russia on next to nothing but their belief in God, their own skills and what little they receive from the Russian Government in the way of aid.