Krylya

A schoolmistress, former glory of the USSR air force, reflects on her life.

Within the post-war cinema (1960s), it's one of the best Russian films I have ever seen.

By Larisa Shepitko, one of the best female directors of all time, 'Wings' is the portrait of a woman who, even with a stable and successful life, feels an enormous nostalgia, when remembering the days on the front line to defend her nation.

The pace, slow and calm, is perfect for the effect that Shepitko intended to do.

The love for the country overrides the personal romance, and family and social relationships are questioned, when the desire to return to the former glory days consumes insanely the little that she still has inside her.

It's also a pertinent approach to feminism, and the role of women in the Soviet hierarchy.

The cinematography is very good, with a fabulous composition.