Tarkovsky's Final Films Return in 4K Restorations

Curzon is set to re-release Andrei Tarkovsky's last two films, Nostalghia (1983) and The Sacrifice (1986), both restored in 4K, in July 2025. Nostalghia, filmed in Italy, depicts a Russian poet who, while studying a composer, struggles with feelings of homesickness. The Sacrifice, shot in Sweden with cinematographer Sven Nykvist, tells the story of a man who vows to give up everything to prevent nuclear catastrophe. Over 24 years, Tarkovsky directed just seven films, beginning with Ivan's Childhood (1962). His cinematic style, characterized by lengthy takes and profound philosophical themes, faced censorship in the Soviet Union. He passed away from cancer shortly after The Sacrifice received the Grand Prix at Cannes in 1986. The article also reflects on Andrei Rublev (1966), Mirror (1975), and Stalker (1979), emphasizing their exploration of spirituality, memory, and existential anguish.