Codec: HEVC / H.265 (71.5 Mb/s)
Resolution: Native 4K (2160p)
Aspect ratio: 1.66:1
Original aspect ratio: 1.66:1
#Swedish: FLAC 1.0
#English: FLAC 2.0 (Commentary by Layla Alexander-Garrett, Tarkovsky's translator on the set of The Sacrifice)
‘...The first version of the film was titled “The Witch” and was intended... as a story about the miraculous healing of a cancer patient.’
Andrei Tarkovsky
“The Sacrifice” is Andrei Tarkovsky’s final film. Moreover, while filming this movie, Andrei Arsenyevich already knew that he was terminally ill with cancer.
In my view, the film is an internal dialogue between the director and himself. Throughout the film, Tarkovsky ponders the question of sacrifice, which he himself attempts to answer. Most likely, the “catastrophe” is a symbol of his approaching death.
I don’t want to discuss the actors’ performances, the cinematography, etc., in this review. Moreover, I don’t want to express my opinion about this film, since I believe that one’s attitude toward this kind of film is a deeply personal matter.
I decided to write this review to encourage more people to watch this film. A film like this will elevate not only your cultural level but also your spiritual one.
And most importantly, after watching the film, ask yourself: “What sacrifice would I make?”