I don't know if it's the not-so-good quality of the 2000s movies, or is it just the fact that all the Russians spoke German freely (even the ones that couldn't have had any experience outside of their usual homeland) that made me dislike the movie. Cheating on his wife did in fact bring out the human side of this hero. I'm disappointed with the movie throughout. Although it had some decent moments, a lot of it was over-extended and highly exaggerated. With so much potential to uncover many truths, it remained focused on the emotional and hospitable side of the Russian people.I don't know why you are so into the details of one German POW story, while skipping the lengthy evidence what bogus are the jew-escapes- from-German-"dead"-camps stories. In fact, every country makes its own heroes to suit their political needs. Some even fake whole historical events for the needs of others.

A prisoner escapes from the Gulag in Siberia and walks to freedom in Iran.This movie is watchable and well filmed but the story is too contrived. Any one who has read Solzhenitsyn would find this a candy coated adventure tale for children.It reminds me of a movie made from a book that is doctored to make it PC (politically correct) and more entertaining for the masses. The hero is helped through Siberia by hunters/gold prospectors and nursed back from near death by a native Siberian tribe. The natives are particularly sugary and far fetched. To add some romance he has a liaison with a young native girl.A Jew helps him the most with a passport. The Jew has a sudden heart attack so he doesn't have to turn him it...It is stupid and contrived what more can I say.DO NOT RECOMMEND

It really is a beautiful story from start to finish. As I watched it I could really feel and understand what was going on. From when he left his family in 1944 to when he finally returned in 1952 7 years later. It sheds light on the light on the Russians, As the crimes they committed during and in the wake of WWII are rarely talked about in the schools. Also it sheds light on just how much the German people knew. If your reading this review I would suggest watching it because I can guarantee it will be one of the greatest movies you have ever seen. And also I felt that the movie really was authentic because it wasn't all in one language, as many movies are these days, it was in the language(s) it was meant to be. And as you watch the movie you'll see how fate is on Clemens side. And trust me this movie is worth your time.

Atlast the wait is over, we see a German POW portrayed in good sense,up against all obstacles,hurdles a human could ever tolerate.Its about Clemens Forell(POW)making his way all through the feet to him hometown. I donna want to spoil the plot by detailing the events.The film scores in its background & theme music,adds Chilling effect to the frozen sheet.The exotic locations is visual treat for eyes. Irina Pantaeva locks you in her charm and beauty.Even though the film ends in a positive note,you will suffer from the DISTANT WALK.This film made me look beyond the horizon Hollywood, and ignited a liking for German movies.A great movie if you have the TIME. If you like this movie you will also like THE GREAT ESCAPE(pow classic)