Sister

Сестрёнка

20191h 34m Directed by Aleksandr Galibin
7.8
(81 votes)
WarDrama

Overview

How many Yamil remembers himself, war has always been. He is very much waiting for it to end - after all, then the father will return, whom the boy knows only from photographs and letters. One day, Mom leaves for a distant city and brings the silent girl Oksana with her. Mum transmits the order of his father to take care of Oksana, as if he was a little sister ... A film adaptation of the story “The Joy of Our Home” by the classic of Soviet literature Mustay Karim.

Sister

A Haunting Portrait of War and Family: Unpacking the Emotional Depth of "Sister"

Maya Ellison
Maya EllisonSep 18, 2025
The 2019 film "Sister" is a poignant and powerful exploration of the human cost of war, told through the eyes of a young boy named Yamil. Based on the story "The Joy of Our Home" by Soviet literature classic Mustay Karim, the movie masterfully weaves together themes of family, loss, and resilience in the face of conflict. The film's narrative is simple yet effective, following Yamil as he navigates the challenges of caring for a silent girl named Oksana, who is brought to his home by his mother. As Yamil struggles to understand his new role as a caretaker, the film slowly reveals the complexities of his family's situation, and the devastating impact of war on their lives.

The film's greatest strength lies in its thoughtful and nuanced portrayal of childhood innocence in the midst of war. Yamil's character is beautifully rendered, conveying the confusion, fear, and determination that defines his experience. The cinematography is equally impressive, capturing the stark beauty of the war-torn landscape and the intimate moments of family life. The use of long takes and close-ups adds to the sense of realism, drawing the viewer into the world of the film. The silent performance of Oksana is also noteworthy, conveying a depth of emotion that speaks volumes about the trauma and vulnerability of her character.

One of the most striking aspects of "Sister" is its ability to balance the brutality of war with the beauty of human connection. The film's depiction of the relationships between Yamil, Oksana, and their mother is tender and authentic, highlighting the ways in which family can provide a sense of comfort and security in the darkest of times. At the same time, the film does not shy away from the harsh realities of war, presenting a stark and unflinching portrait of the devastation and loss that it brings. The result is a movie that is both deeply moving and thought-provoking, inviting viewers to reflect on the human cost of conflict and the importance of empathy and compassion. With its powerful storytelling, stunning cinematography, and outstanding performances, "Sister" is a must-see for anyone interested in war dramas or family stories, and a testament to the enduring power of cinema to capture the complexity and beauty of human experience.

CAST

Arslan Krymchurin
Arslan Krymchurin
Yamil
Marta Timofeeva
Marta Timofeeva
Oksana
Yusuf Rakhmetov
Марат
Ilgiza Gilmanova
мама Ямиля
Sulpan Abdrahimova
бабушка Ямиля
Rauis Zagitov
Мансур-Бабай
Vitalii Salii
Vitalii Salii
Петро
Nazhiba Iskandarova
Фархуниса
Ruslan Khaysarov
папа Ямиля
Gulnaz Khaysarova
мама Маратика

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