Outskirts (film)

Outskirts is a 1933 Soviet drama film directed by Boris Barnet. The film, originally titled Okraina, is a poignant portrayal of life in a small Russian town during World War I. It explores the impact of the war on the ordinary lives of the townspeople, highlighting themes of patriotism, loss, and the human cost of conflict.

The narrative follows a diverse group of characters, including a shoemaker, a student, a postal worker, and others, as their lives are irrevocably altered by the war. The film depicts their initial enthusiasm and patriotic fervor gradually giving way to disillusionment and despair as the war drags on and casualties mount.

Barnet's direction is noted for its realistic and unsentimental depiction of the war and its effects. Outskirts is considered a significant work of early Soviet cinema, praised for its powerful performances, social commentary, and its exploration of the human condition in the face of overwhelming circumstances. The film's anti-war message and focus on the common person's experience resonated with audiences and contributed to its critical acclaim. It is often cited as a compelling example of the early Soviet cinema's engagement with contemporary social and political issues.