It will shake you to your core

There is always a fine line between war films and anti-war films. In order for a film to really carry the latter distinction, it must not for a second portray the war as an effective spectacle. A work that can definitely be described as an anti-war film and at the same time most violent film of its kind represents is come and see.

If you don’t know the shocking film by Russian director Elem Klimov, you can stream it for free on YouTube right now. The original Russian version with English subtitles is available.

Shocking war film tip: This is what Come and See is about

In the film, 14-year-old Flyora (Aleksey Kravchenko) joins the partisans in 1943 Belarus during World War II. After he is left in the camp with the girl Glascha (Olga Mironova) and both survive by a miracle, they have to increasingly cruel and unbearable events watch.

Watch the trailer for Come and See with German subtitles here:

Through the perspective of the young main character, Come and See becomes the ultimate chilling film about the horrific dimensions of war. The film not only unleashes one blood-curdling sequence after another, but also uses a surreal trick to age Fljora frighteningly quickly.

Lead actor Aleksey Kravchenko, who was only 14 years old at the time of the nine-month filming, was subjected to special autogenic training by the director with the help of a hypnotist. This prevented the young actor from appearing lasting mental problems through the exhausting, challenging production.

And if you’re looking for more film tips for streaming:

Podcast about the 10 best streaming films of 2024 on Netflix, Disney+ and Co.

In the annual review of the year at Netflix, Disney+, Apple TV+ and Co., we discuss which streaming films are a must in 2024 and give you 10 recommendations.

The selection of the best streaming films of the year ranges from action surprises and thrilling adventure films to intense dramas. But there are also comedies and documentaries.