Roza and a few movies
Roza Shanina, one of the most famous Soviet snipers, kept a journal while stationed at the front. Her insights are interesting and eye-opening, describing her love of combat and being in the thick of war. She was one of the most photographed women, although killed in action in Jan. 1945.
She was killed on Jan. 28, 1945 after sustaining injuries the previous day from shell fragments. She remains one of the most widely photographed Soviet soldiers during the war, while her diary, although against regulations, continues to be a valuable primary source for historians, like me.
Roza Shanina shown here with fellow snipers Alexandra Yekimova and Lidia Vdovina. Taken by A.N. Fridlyanski. Fortunately this is one photo where we know the subjects and photographer. Most of the time that is not the case.
Did you know that Amazon Prime has a selection of Russian WWII movies and series featuring Soviet women? While not always historically accurate, these depictions can help raise awareness of the contribution of women to the war effort.
Battle for Sevastopol (2015) was an entertaining look at Lyudmila Pavlichenko, albeit with a few creative liberties. Overall, I really enjoyed the film.
The Dawns Here are Quiet is a 4 episode series on Amazon prime in Russian with English subtitles. There were a few things to critique, but overall a good show. I definitely recommend! My next step is to watch the original 1972 film.
Also on my watchlist are Night Swallows (2013), Night Witches in the Sky (1981), Spies (2013). Any other recommendations?
