My Heart Is in the Highlands

Synopsis

"My Heart Is in the Highlands" (1967) is a poignant drama directed by Sulambek Mamilov, based on the play by the renowned Armenian writer William Saroyan. The film follows the story of a young Armenian boy and his family living in the mountainous regions of the Caucasus. It explores themes of longing, cultural identity, and the human spirit's resilience amidst hardship. The narrative delves into the boy's vivid imagination and his perception of life through the eyes of innocence, portraying the warmth of family bonds and the struggle to preserve heritage in the face of changing times. With evocative cinematography capturing the dramatic landscapes, the film blends elements of nostalgia and reality, creating an emotional and reflective cinematic experience.

Cast

• 

  Yelena Solovey

  baker's daughter

• 

  Vyacheslav Kuleshov

  Johnny

• Alla Bobrova

• Lyudmila Nazarova

• 

  Aleksandr Kostomolotsky

  McGregor

• 

  Sergey Godzi

  poet

Reviews

Critically, "My Heart Is in the Highlands" has received a generally positive reception, especially noted for its emotive storytelling and strong performances, particularly by Yelena Solovey. On IMDb, it holds a respectable rating of 7.4/10, reflecting an appreciation from audiences for its heartfelt narrative and atmospheric setting. While the film is not widely covered on mainstream Western review sites such as Rotten Tomatoes or Metacritic, specialty film critics and aficionados praise its lyrical adaptation of Saroyan's work and its authentic portrayal of Armenian culture. Some reviewers highlight the film's deliberate pacing and sometimes understated delivery, which may challenge viewers seeking more conventional dramatic tension but reward those who appreciate introspective cinema. Overall, it is celebrated for its artistic merit and cultural significance, regarded as a classic piece among Soviet-era Armenian cinema.

See also

Dead Snow 2: Red vs. Dead

Twin Peaks

Marriage Italian Style

Bride of Re-Animator