We and Our Mountains is a Soviet Armenian film released in 1969, directed by Henrik Malyan and starring Sos Sargsyan, Frunzik Mkrtchyan, and Khoren Abrahamyan. The film takes place in a small Armenian village, where we witness the daily struggles of the local villagers amidst the backdrop of the majestic mountains. At the center of the story are two friends, Arakel and Marukh, who are opposing in character, yet share a deep bond. Arakel (played by Sos Sargsyan) is a hardworking and compassionate carpenter who strives to make a better life for his family. Marukh (played by Frunzik Mkrtchyan) is a carefree and somewhat lazy shepherd who lives in the moment and enjoys the simple pleasures of life.
Their friendship is put to the test when a new schoolteacher, Susanna (played by Varduhi Varderesyan), arrives in town. Arakel falls in love with Susanna at first sight, but Marukh also begins to develop feelings for her. As the story develops, we see the tension building between the two friends, while Susanna tries to navigate her own feelings and decide which man is right for her.
The film beautifully captures the essence of village life in Armenia, from the daily routines of the villagers to the traditional celebrations of weddings and funerals. The stunning landscapes of the Armenian mountains provide a breathtaking backdrop to the story, creating a sense of both beauty and isolation.
One of the key themes explored in the film is the struggle between tradition and modernity. Arakel represents the traditional values of the village, striving to provide for his family and maintain the culture and way of life that he knows. Marukh, on the other hand, represents a more modern and carefree way of living, unencumbered by the weight of tradition and expectations.
As the story progresses, we see how these opposing values clash, particularly when it comes to the love triangle between Arakel, Marukh, and Susanna. The film presents a nuanced exploration of this conflict, never taking sides but rather highlighting the complexity and validity of both perspectives.
Another notable aspect of We and Our Mountains is the film's use of music. The score, composed by Tigran Mansurian, effectively captures the emotional arc of the story, from the playful and lighthearted moments to the more intense and dramatic scenes.
Overall, We and Our Mountains is a beautifully crafted film that captures the essence of village life in Armenia while exploring deeper themes of tradition, modernity, and love. The strong performances by the cast, particularly by Sos Sargsyan and Frunzik Mkrtchyan, bring depth and nuance to the characters, making them feel both relatable and complex. The stunning cinematography and score add to the film's overall impact, creating a mesmerizing and emotionally resonant viewing experience.
