The Cranes Are Flying is a 1957 Soviet drama film directed by Mikhail Kalatozov. The film tells the story of a young couple, Veronika and Boris, who fall in love just before the outbreak of World War II. They promise to meet each other before Boris leaves to fight at the front. However, their plans are disrupted when Boris misses the meeting and is sent to the front lines.
As the war progresses, Veronika keeps sending letters to Boris, hoping to hear from him. Meanwhile, she moves in with Boris' family after her own house is bombed. Boris' cousin, Mark, who is attracted to Veronika, tries to win her over. However, Veronika remains faithful to Boris and rejects Mark's advances.
As the war comes to an end, Boris is reported missing in action. Veronika refuses to believe that he is dead and continues to wait for him. Eventually, she learns that Boris has died in battle and must come to terms with her loss.
The Cranes Are Flying is a poignant story about love, sacrifice, and loss during wartime. The film's stunning cinematography and powerful performances from the cast make it a masterpiece of Soviet cinema. The film won the Palme d'Or at the 1958 Cannes Film Festival, and it is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made.