The Ascent is a 1977 Soviet war drama directed by Larisa Shepitko, set during World War II in Nazi-occupied Belarus. It follows two Soviet partisans, Sotnikov and Rybak, who risk their lives to find food for their starving group. After being captured by the Nazis, Sotnikov bravely endures torture without betraying his comrades, while Rybak chooses to betray them to save himself. The film explores themes of sacrifice, betrayal, moral struggle, and spiritual transcendence. It is highly acclaimed for its powerful storytelling and striking black-and-white cinematography, and it won the Golden Bear at the 1977 Berlin International Film Festival.
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