51³Ô¹ÏÍø

Europe - Circa 1943: In the besieged city of Leningrad, the lack of water supply forces residents to dig holes in the streets to access the precious resource during the harsh winter. Scenes show people gathering water from holes and canals in urban streets, while one person does laundry in the middle of the road, underscoring the city’s dire conditions. Food rations are implemented, with footage of someone cutting thin slices from a loaf of bread and others collecting their bread rations from a counter. The civilian population contributes to the city’s recovery by removing rubble from the streets, shoveling it onto trains to clear pathways. The scenes shift to views of snow-covered buildings, rising smoke, and winter’s harsh grip on the city. Despite the challenges, a man works as a machinist indoors, exemplifying the resilience of the people. A German cannon, inscribed with Thor, symbolizes the Nazis’ determination to shell Leningrad indiscriminately. Large-caliber weapons are fired, with devastating impacts on the city. Buildings crumble instantly under the bombardment, as more scenes of cannon fire highlight the destruction. In response, the Russian people, including women, are shown working in factories, producing weapons for the Red Army. Their determination to support the war effort reflects the city’s unwavering resolve to endure and fight back against the siege. (Footage by Roberto Machado Noa/Getty Images)