Cold Summer of 1953

A 1987 Soviet drama directed by Alexander Proshkin. The story takes place in the summer of 1953, shortly after Stalin's death and the mass amnesty that freed both political prisoners and criminals. In a remote village on the edge of the forest, two former political prisoners, Skopin (Anatoly Papanov) and Kopalych (Valery Priyomykhov), attempt to start anew in peace and quiet. However, their tranquility is shattered when a gang of criminals arrives, terrorizing the villagers. As the criminals begin robbing and killing, Skopin and Kopalych are forced to take up arms to protect the community. The film portrays the harsh realities of post-war Soviet life and the fates of those who endured repression.