What Is The Cranes Are Flying About?
The premise of The Cranes Are Flying in 319 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In the soft glow of a pre‑war Moscow sunrise, Veronika and Boris meet beside the river, their conversation drifting like the cranes that glide overhead. Their shy promises to reunite before he must answer the call to the front capture a tender, almost reverent mood that threads through the first moments of the film. The city itself feels both ordinary and portentous, its streets humming with daily life while an unseen storm gathers on the horizon, hinting at the deep, bittersweet currents that will soon sweep through their world.
As the inevitable conflict erupts, the film shifts to a landscape scarred by uncertainty, where the rhythm of everyday existence is broken by air‑raid sirens and the quiet desperation of letters sent across distant battle lines. Veronika finds herself navigating a new reality, clinging to the fragments of hope left behind in a small, hand‑crafted token and the words tucked within it. The tone remains lyrical and intimate, painting the war’s impact not as a distant spectacle but as an intimate intrusion into the private hearts of those left behind.
Seeking shelter from the turmoil, Veronika takes refuge with Boris’s family, an arrangement that introduces new relational dynamics and subtle tensions. Among them is Mark, a close relative whose presence adds another layer of complexity to the delicate balance of affection, loyalty, and survival. The household becomes a microcosm of a nation trying to maintain its humanity amid loss, where simple gestures—shared meals, quiet conversations, the occasional glance at the sky—carry the weight of unspoken longing.
Throughout, the film’s visual language sways between the starkness of war‑torn streets and the lingering beauty of Moscow’s riverbanks, where the cranes return like quiet witnesses to a love that endures despite the surrounding chaos. The mood is both hopeful and melancholy, inviting viewers to feel the quiet resilience of those who keep love alive even when the world around them is falling apart.
What Happens in The Cranes Are Flying?
The complete story of The Cranes Are Flying, from the first scene to the last, in 854 words (about 4 minutes). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 5 cast member pages.
Spoilers ahead
In “What’s After the Movie,” the story begins in the early hours of June 22, 1941, in Moscow, as Veronika and her boyfriend, Aleksey Batalov, watch the cranes soar over the city during sunrise. They quickly sneak back into their family apartments, unaware that just hours later, their lives will be dramatically changed forever. The devastating news arrives soon after when Boris’s cousin, Nikolay Smorchkov, wakes him with the horrifying announcement that Nazi Germany has launched a surprise invasion of the Soviet Union.
Veronika learns that Boris, the young man she loves, has volunteered to fight for their country, demonstrating his patriotism and courage. Before leaving, Boris asks his grandmother to give Veronika a small birthday gift—a stuffed squirrel toy, which Boris affectionately calls “squirrel,” his pet name for Veronika. Inside the toy, Boris discreetly slips a heartfelt love note, eager to keep his feelings alive even as he heads into battle. When Veronika arrives at Boris’s apartment to say goodbye, she finds the door unopened; she is too late to see Boris off to the front lines, but Boris’s grandmother gives her the cherished stuffed squirrel as a token of Boris’s affection.
As the chaos of war unfolds, Veronika searches for Boris at the military draft station, only to discover that he has already marched off to face the dangers of war. Meanwhile, tragedy strikes at her home front—her family is caught in a German air raid that destroys their apartment building and claims the lives of her parents. Orphaned and heartbroken, Veronika finds refuge with Boris’s family, who graciously invite her to stay.
Amidst the war’s brutality, Mark, Boris’s cousin, confesses his love for Veronika but is met with her unwavering devotion to Boris. Their fragile relationship is tested further when, during another air raid, Mark makes a move on her—an act of desperation that leads to an assault, which Veronika fiercely rebuffs. Despite their marriage afterward, Veronika despises Mark for his betrayal, and the family views her as a traitor to Boris’s memory.
At the war front, Boris finds himself in a tense confrontation with a fellow soldier, Valentin Zubkov, who mocks him over a photo of Veronika. Their altercation is noticed by their commanding officer, who assigns them a perilous reconnaissance mission. During the mission, Boris heroically saves Volodya’s life but gets shot in the process. In his final moments, Boris experiences a vivid vision of a wedding that will never happen, symbolizing the love he yearned to share with Veronika.
In a desperate bid to escape the advancing German forces, Boris’s family relocates to Siberia. Veronika, now working as a nurse in a military hospital overseen by Boris’s father, Vasili Merkuryev, grapples with feelings of loss and despair. She becomes overwhelmed by guilt after overhearing her superior talk about unfaithful women, thinking she resembles the kind of woman he condemns. This emotional turmoil drives her to attempt suicide by train but is interrupted when she rescues a young boy—Boris’s little brother—who has been separated from his mother. The boy’s name is Boris, and through him, Veronika finds a renewed purpose.
She searches for her stuffed squirrel toy, which Boris’s sister, Irina, cruelly informs her Mark is giving it to his mistress at his own birthday party. Rushing to the celebration, Veronika intercepts the notes Boris had hidden in the toy, discovering a final tender message from him. Through voice-over narration, Boris’s love note becomes a poignant reminder of the feelings that once kept their hopes alive. Meanwhile, Boris’s father, Fyodor Ivanovich, uncovers that Mark has bribed his way out of military service, revealing his betrayal not only of Boris but of their entire family and country.
Fyodor expels Mark from their home, and through this act, the family begins to heal. Veronika is forgiven for her perceived betrayal, and the boy she saved from the accident becomes part of their family. Yet, the pain of loss remains, as Volodya—recovered from his injuries—comes searching for Boris’s family and delivers the heartbreaking news that Boris was killed in battle.
Even after the war ends in 1945, Veronika and Volodya walk along the river in Moscow, sharing a close bond, though she refuses to accept Boris’s death. She holds onto hope, believing that somehow he might still be alive. Her grief reaches a climax at the train station, where she searches frantically for Boris and his friend, Stepan. When she finally learns the truth—Boris is dead—it shatters her emotionally. Overcome with grief, she stumbles through the crowd, tears streaming down her face.
During a patriotic gathering, as Stepan passionately declares that those who died in the war are forever remembered, Veronika begins distributing her flowers among the returning soldiers and their families. As she looks up at the sky, she witnesses the cranes flying once more over Moscow—symbolic of hope, memory, and the enduring spirit of those lost during the war.
Throughout the film, themes of love, loss, sacrifice, and resilience intertwine to paint a vivid picture of that tumultuous period in history, capturing the emotional struggles of those affected by war and the unbreakable human spirit that persists despite unimaginable suffering.
The Cranes Are Flying Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
13 key events in the order they happen, from “German Invasion of Moscow” to “Commemoration and Moving Forward”. 13 events name a place, across 11 locations.
- 1
German Invasion of Moscow
On June 22, 1941, Moscow is invaded by German forces, marking the start of World War II in the city. Veronika and Boris observe cranes flying over the city at dawn, symbolizing a moment of peace before chaos erupts. Boris's cousin Mark delivers the news that the Germans have invaded, setting the story in motion.
When:June 22, 1941 Where:Moscow
- 2
Boris Volunteers for the Army
Boris decides to volunteer for the war after learning about the invasion. He asks his grandmother to pass a love note hidden in his gift for Veronika, a stuffed squirrel, symbolizing his love and hope. Veronika misses seeing Boris at his apartment but receives the stuffed squirrel as a token from his grandmother.
When:Hours after June 22, 1941 Where:Boris's home
- 3
Boris Goes to War
Boris is unable to find Veronika before departing and joins the army. Veronika searches for him at the assembly station, only to learn he has already marched to the front. Their separation signifies the beginning of a long and painful wartime ordeal.
When:Soon after Boris volunteers Where:Moscow assembly station
- 4
Family's Tragedy and Veronika's Loss
Veronika's parents are killed during a German air raid that destroys their apartment building. The family offers her shelter, but she mourns Boris's absence and remains faithful, awaiting his return. The air raid marks a devastating turning point for her and all Muscovites.
When:Shortly after Boris leaves for war Where:Moscow
- 5
Mark's Love and Assault
Mark confesses his love for Veronika, but she rejects him. During another air raid, Mark makes a pass at her, and when she resists, he rapes her. This act of betrayal and violence damages their relationship and alters Veronika's perception of trust.
When:During the air raid Where:Veronika's apartment
- 6
Boris's Death in Reconnaissance Mission
Boris fights in a reconnaissance mission and saves a fellow soldier, Volodya, but gets shot in the process. In his final moments, Boris envisions a wedding with Veronika, symbolizing his unfulfilled hopes and love. His death signifies a personal loss amid the vast chaos of war.
When:During the war Where:Frontline battlefield
- 7
Relocation to Siberia and Veronika as a Nurse
To escape the German offensive, Boris's family moves to Siberia. Veronika works as a nurse in a military hospital run by Boris's father, Fyodor. Her life is marked by hardship, loss, and the ongoing trauma of war and displacement.
When:After Boris’s death, during WWII Where:Siberia, military hospital
- 8
Veronika's Near Suicide and Reconciliation with Boris's Boy
Overcome with guilt and grief, Veronika attempts to throw herself in front of a train. She rescues a young boy named Boris, who is separated from his mother, reconnecting her with the memories of her lost love. She later searches for her forgotten squirrel toy in hopes of finding comfort.
When:During her time in Siberia Where:Near railway tracks and home
- 9
Revelation of Mark's Betrayal
Veronika discovers that Mark, who married her, has been bribed to avoid military service and has misused her trust. Her family finally realizes Mark's betrayal, leading to his expulsion from the household. Veronika's forgiveness signifies her resilience and the complex bonds formed during wartime.
When:After Veronika's return from Siberia Where:Family home
- 10
Boris's Death Confirmed
Volodya returns to tell Veronika and Boris's family that Boris has been killed in action. This confirmation shatters her hopes of reunion and deepens her grief. Her mourning reflects the collective pain of a nation at war’s end.
When:1945 Where:Family home, Moscow
Show the other 3 events of The Cranes Are Flying Hide the last 3 events
- 11
End of War and Vigilance
As World War II ends, Veronika and Volodya walk by the river, symbolizing the hope and loss intertwined in their lives. Veronika remains unconvinced that Boris is dead, emphasizing her persistent hope amidst grief. She continues to honor the memories of those lost in the war.
When:1945 Where:Moscow river
- 12
Reunion and Reflection at the Train Station
Boris's unit returns home, and Veronika, filled with a mix of grief and longing, searches for Boris during a victory celebration at the train station. She learns of his death, and overwhelmed by sorrow, she stumbles through the crowd, mourning what could have been.
When:Post-war celebration, 1945 Where:Train station, Moscow
- 13
Commemoration and Moving Forward
During a speech honoring those who died in the war, Veronika begins distributing her flowers among returning soldiers and their families, symbolizing her attempt to heal and remember the fallen. The cranes flying in the sky over Moscow symbolize hope and peace after the devastation.
When:Post-war, 1945 Where:Moscow
Who Are the Main Characters in The Cranes Are Flying?
4 characters, among them Veronika (Valentina Ananina), Boris ( Aleksandr Kuznetsov, uncredited) and Mark (unknown actor): who each one is and the part they play in the story. 2 of them link to the actor’s page.
- V(
Veronika (Valentina Ananina)
Played by Valentina Ananina
Veronika remains faithful and hopeful throughout the chaos of war. She is a symbol of endurance, battling with heartbreak and guilt, but demonstrating resilience as she seeks love and meaning amid devastation. Her character embodies the strength of the human spirit in times of profound hardship.
- 🎖️ Loyal
- 💫 Hopeful
- 💔 Traumatized
- B(
Boris ( Aleksandr Kuznetsov, uncredited)
Played by Aleksandr Kuznetsov
Boris is a dedicated soldier whose love for Veronika motivates his actions. His heroism and ultimate sacrifice highlight the theme of youthful bravery and the tragic cost of war. His final vision underscores the enduring power of love beyond death.
- 🎖️ Brave
- 🕊️ Sacrificial
- 💭 Idealistic
- M(
Mark (unknown actor)
Mark is Boris’s cousin who becomes entangled in complex feelings for Veronika. His actions—ranging from love to betrayal—adding tension and exploring themes of morality, guilt, and societal judgment amid wartime hardships.
- 💔 Jealous
- 😡 Agitated
- 💣 Disloyal
- V(
Volodya (unknown actor)
Volodya is a soldier and Boris’s comrade who undergoes recovery and provides a voice of reconciliation. His presence exemplifies the themes of friendship, healing, and the personal toll of war.
- 🤝 Loyal
- 🩹 Caring
- 🧠 Resilient
Where and When Is The Cranes Are Flying Set?
The Cranes Are Flying is set in Moscow, Siberia and Berlin (June 1941 - 1945). Here is why the time and place matter to the story.
When
June 1941 - 1945
The movie covers the period from the German invasion of the Soviet Union in June 1941, marking the USSR's entry into World War II, through the war's end in 1945. This was a critical era characterized by intense battles, civilian suffering, and the resilience of the Soviet people during one of the most tumultuous times in history.
Where
Moscow, Siberia, Berlin
The film takes place primarily in Moscow, reflecting its status as the cultural and political center of Russia during World War II. Part of the story also shifts to Siberia, showcasing its vast, harsh, and isolated environment used for relocation and wartime efforts. The climax and aftermath involve scenes in Berlin, representing the German front and the war's end, emphasizing the extensive geographical scope of the conflict.
- 🌆 Urban
- ❄️ Cold climate
- 🏞️ Vast landscapes
What Are the Themes of The Cranes Are Flying?
2 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Love and Loss and War and Sacrifice.
-
01
Love and Loss
The film explores deep themes of romantic and familial love amidst war, highlighting how conflict can devastate personal relationships. Veronika's unwavering love for Boris faces numerous trials, including separation, betrayal, and grief, illustrating the enduring pain caused by war.
-
02
War and Sacrifice
Central to the story is the theme of sacrifice, both personal and collective, as characters endure loss and suffering for their country. Boris's heroism and the civilians’ resilience underscore the brutal cost of war and the importance of remembrance.
What Kind of Film Is The Cranes Are Flying?
Melancholic in tone, with steady pacing and a moderate story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Melancholic
- Pacing
- Steady
- Story
- Moderate
- Intensity
- High
- Ending
- Bittersweet
A deeply melancholic war-time romance that follows a woman's devastating grief and resilient hope, set against a backdrop of immense personal tragedy and national sacrifice.
- melancholic
- somber
- hopeful
- grieving
- nostalgic
- tense
- war and love
- loss and grief
- survival
- patriotism vs. betrayal
Content notes: war violence, sexual assault, suicide attempt, death of loved ones.
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Where to Watch The Cranes Are Flying
Stream it on Artiflix and Criterion Channel, or rent or buy it from Fandango At Home. US availability and prices from JustWatch.
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