Burnt by the Sun Critique

            
             Burnt By The Sun takes place in Stalin-era Russia, beginning with a very peculiar scene where a young man, apparently an employee of the state, visits with this father before he goes on an assignment. The scene is then suddenly changed to the Russian countryside, where peasants are in an uproar over movement of Stalin's tanks, which crush their wheat in the process. A local general, who turns out to be one of main characters, persuades the tanks to turn around. This general is named Kotov, played by Nikita Mikhalov. Mikhalov also directs the film and casts his daughter Nadia as a main character. .
             Later, a visitor appears in Kotov's house. Disguised as an old man, he starts teasing many people in the house in various ways. Eventually, it is revealed that he is the young man from the opening sequence, named Mitya. Apparently, he is an old family friend, who hasn't visited for nearly ten years. His presence is a blessing for most of the inhabitants of the large house. But Kotov appears wary and suspicious, and later their history is revealed to the audience. Kotov's wife, Marussa, once loved Mitya before he was sent away for reasons unknown to her. Finally, the climax is brought to life as Mitya tells his life story to Kotov's daughter, Nadia, in the form of a puppet show. Mitya was once close friends with Marussa's father, and soon fell in love with her. Kotov then sent Mitya to work for Stalin, so he could marry Marussa. It is also revealed to the audience the reason why Mitya has returned. He informs Kotov that a car will be coming for him that afternoon, and it is assumed he will not be returning. The car comes on time and takes Mitya and Kotov, who is dressed in his full military uniform. The car starts its journey, but is stopped by a broken-down truck. Kotov tries to escape by punching the men, but is overpowered and beaten. As this is happening, a large hot air balloon rises with a picture of Stalin attached.