There are also interview clips with main actor Nikolai Burlyaev (HD, 10:59) and cinematographer Vadim Yusov (HD, 13:27), of which Burlyaev's comments are the most engaging, offering memories of his interactions with Tarkovsky and the familial spirit on the set. The enclosed booklet contains an essay by Dina Iordanova, an article by Andrei Tarkovsky regarding Ivan, as well as a poem by Tarkovsky's father with allusions to the film.
Conclusion
It's hard not to be taken by the visual splendor of Ivan's Childhood, as scene after scene display striking and wonderfully shot black and white cinematography. But fortunately the film has more to offer than just well-executed shots from a young director trying to prove himself. Ivan's Childhood is firmly grounded in the setting of a war drama but uniquely incorporates a young protagonist role able to both participate in and reveal the darkness in war's reach, well beyond just the field of battle. Criterion have given an outstanding Blu-ray treatment to the film, and an interesting, if not robust, collection of extras. Very recommended.
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