The Stone Cross (film)

The Stone Cross is a 1968 Ukrainian Soviet film directed by Leonid Osyka. It is based on short stories by Ukrainian writer Vasyl Stefanyk, primarily "The Stone Cross" and "The Thief." The film explores themes of poverty, emigration, and the emotional hardship experienced by Ukrainian peasants at the turn of the 20th century as they are forced to leave their homeland in search of a better life. The narrative focuses on the character of Ivan Didukh, a farmer who decides to emigrate to Canada with his family due to economic hardship. Before leaving, he erects a stone cross on his land to mark his departure and symbolize the sacrifice he is making. The film is noted for its poetic realism, stark visuals, and powerful performances, capturing the difficult realities of rural life and the pain of separation from one's roots. It is considered a significant work in Ukrainian cinema.