As a Russian, I couldn't help but notice that Soviet characters in this film lack depth and look like caricatures (except Irina, the female lead).
This is understandable.
Soviet propaganda circa 1943 did not bother with compassion to the enemy.
To the author's credit -- he separated Soviets from Russians.
Now, as of 2019, we know, that they were very different.
And many Russians did not want to defend the rule of Soviets.
The film aged well.
Its main message is still valid and relevant.
A war between Europeans is an immense tragedy.
Mutual animosity leads Europe to nowhere.
Europe needs spiritual leaders who can rise above the fights -- usually instigated by third parties -- and bring peace using traditional European values.
