As “Veronika” (Tatyana Samoylova) and her boyfriend "Boris" (Aleksey Batalov) plan to meet by the river, war unexpectedly breaks out! This throws a wrench into things for this couple as he immediately enlists in the Soviet army to fight against the advancing German forces. With her becoming a nurse and him going to the front lines, it becomes difficult for them to communicate, and that’s when, amidst explosions and gossip, misunderstandings arise which cause considerable distress for this young woman struggling with mounting conflict—both physical and emotional. Her situation is made even more sensitive when she finds herself the target of unwanted advances from his cousin "Mark" (Aleksandr Shvorin), leading to a marriage that few understand and could further discourage “Boris” if he were ever to discover that his beloved has left him to his fate. A group of cranes initially symbolizes their affection, and it’s that very image they hope will sustain them throughout their lives—despite what happens between people with bombs and bullets. But is that just an unrealistic fantasy, or is there real hope when so much seems determined to keep them apart? Samoylova's performance is both powerful and moving, especially as the film moves into a darker, more desperate second half. The camera focuses on her face, her eyes, and her expressions, and she uses this effectively to communicate a wide range of feelings. Shvorin also does well in his role, bringing a touch of manipulation and cowardice to a story that otherwise celebrates family and community values, though not flawlessly. People respond to circumstances differently. The photography has an intense observational quality that at times makes you feel like you shouldn’t be watching, especially in the hospital where "Uncle Fyodor" (Vasily Merkurev) is constantly handling casualties among his patients and staff! It's a very human story set against the backdrop of war, depicted powerfully and quite compellingly amidst snowy landscapes and ruins.

Source on TMDB