1977 Film Ranked Among 'Best Movies of All Time' Was an International Hit
In 1977, Soviet filmmaker Larisa Shepitko directed a war drama that would go on to build one of the strongest worldwide reputations in cinema.
The Ascent has been ranked among Rotten Tomatoes' "300 Best Movies of All Time," reflecting how deeply the film has continued to resonate with critics and viewers alike, even decades after its release. Its lasting impact does not come from spectacle, but from its intense emotional and moral weight.
Set during World War II, the story follows two Soviets who leave their unit in search of food and find themselves in Nazi-occupied territory. As their situation worsens, the film shifts into something more psychological, forcing both men into decisions that test survival, loyalty and personal conviction.
The film's director, Shepitko, was known for her ability to blend physical reality with a spiritual dimension. The Ascent is widely considered her greatest work, and its composition is largely responsible for that.
She avoided the traditional war-movie pacing by building a slow, deliberate atmosphere. The snowy landscapes feel isolating and unforgiving, mirroring the characters' internal struggles and heightening tension without relying on action.
Film critic Wael Khairy describes it as "simply remarkable," explaining that "Its complex existential message transcends nationalism to investigate the human condition. ... It engages viewers, both intellectually and emotionally, by looking at the very essence of morality."
Many consider the film a cinematic masterpiece, and the honors it has received reflect this. It won the Golden Bear at the 1977 Berlin International Film Festival, alongside three other awards, and now holds a 100% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes.
Rather than fading with time, The Ascent continues to stand out for its remarkable ability to instill deep emotion and reflection in viewers. Its outstanding reputation helps explain why it still appears on major "greatest films" lists today.
Related: 1975 Classic Hit Film Ranked Among 'Best Movies of All Time'
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This story was originally published April 23, 2026 at 9:32 PM.