Stalin's Sickle

About This Movie

Stalin's Sickle is a curious drama set in 1962 New Zealand, where the atmosphere feels almost nostalgic yet charged with the weight of post-war transition. The story revolves around Daniel, this imaginative nine-year-old Catholic boy, who finds a peculiar connection between the old man at church and Stalin himself. It’s an interesting juxtaposition, really—the innocence of childhood clashing with the heavy shadows of history. The pacing is reflective, allowing you to really sit with Daniel's thoughts and fears. The performances, especially that of the boy, bring a certain depth. The practical effects are minimal but effective, enhancing the dreamlike quality of Daniel's world. It's this blend of whimsy and gravity that makes it a distinctive piece in the tapestry of '80s cinema.

Set in 1962 New ZealandExplores themes of childhood and historyReflective pacing with a dreamlike quality