Alexander Nevsky (1938)

This film is a Russian propaganda piece, but it was made by a genius. Sure, it feels a bit stiff and slow compared to today’s films. But, the story structure blows modern films away. It is simple and satisfying without strained spectacle. The influence of the shooting style can be seen still today with the start wide then cut in formula. The cut ins are very smooth for the time period revealing a skillful and practiced hand and eye. It proved to be an interesting viewing experience.