In the Crosswind

In the Crosswind, a 2022 Estonian drama film directed by Maik Sandu, tells the harrowing story of Erna, a young philosophy student and wife, who finds herself in the midst of an unimaginable tragedy. The film's narrative is rooted in history, drawing from the brutal reality of the Soviet deportations of Estonians, Latvians, and Lithuanians to Siberia in June 1941. Amidst the chaos and devastation, Erna's courage, resilience, and unwavering hope serve as a testament to the unbreakable human spirit. The film begins with an unrelenting and eerie atmosphere, as Erna, alongside thousands of others, is forcibly removed from her homeland in the dead of night. Erna, a happily married mother, has to confront the harsh reality of being separated from her husband and torn away from her comfortable life. The cruel fate that awaits her and her young daughter, Leida, is evident from the beginning. In the crowded cattle cars, they face the unforgiving conditions of the Soviet regime – suffocating conditions, scarce food and water, and the perpetual threat of death. As the train journey traverses across vast expanses of Russian and Siberian territories, the passengers endure unbearable hardships, including inhumane treatment by the Soviet soldiers and brutal conditions. In the midst of this desolate and inhumane environment, Erna finds herself in constant conflict between her desire to survive and her refusal to lose hope. With unwavering determination, Erna clings to her inner strength, using her knowledge of philosophy as a source of comfort and motivation to push forward. Her love for Leida, her little daughter, serves as the driving force behind her will to endure. The years pass by, with Erna and Leida struggling to cope with the unforgiving realities of life in the Siberian camps. Hunger, cold, and brutal treatment by their captors become an integral part of their daily existence. Despite the overwhelming odds, Erna never loses her sense of hope – she remains fixated on the prospect of returning home one day. Her determination inspires other women in the camp, earning her the nickname 'the philosopher' among her peers. Throughout the film, the cinematography skillfully conveys the inhumane condition of life in the camps. The stark landscape, the bleak skies, and the dilapidated infrastructure of the settlements all contribute to an oppressive atmosphere that echoes the inhumanity of the Soviet regime. The director, Maik Sandu, employs long, unbroken shots to magnify the suffering of his characters and underscore the desolate setting. One of the most significant aspects of In the Crosswind is its portrayal of the human spirit under unimaginable duress. Erna's unwavering resolve to hold on to her humanity, despite the unimaginable hardships she and her daughter face, is a powerful message that transcends the confines of a tragic historical event. The movie also shines a light on the plight of the thousands of women, children, and men who were forcibly deported to Siberia, often disappearing into the labyrinth of Soviet history. Erna and Leida's story stands as a testament to their resilience and an enduring legacy that refuses to be silenced. Through Erna's journey, the film also explores the intricate relationships between women, their children, and their families. The bond between Erna and Leida is particularly poignant, as they form an unbreakable relationship in the face of immense adversity. Their struggles offer a poignant portrayal of the strength of women in preserving hope, love, and identity in the face of overwhelming oppression. In the Crosswind serves as a tribute to the unbreakable human spirit, which continues to inspire and motivate people to fight for freedom, hope, and their most fundamental human rights. Erna's story stands as a powerful reminder that even in the darkest of times, the light of hope can guide us through the most treacherous landscapes.