“If you haven't seen it, you have an incredible treat in store.” - Michael Wilmington, Chicago Tribune
“Exhaustive, spectacular, often dazzling in its ambition and faithfulness to Tolstoy, the movie is still regarded as one of the wonders of epic cinema.” - John Hartl, Seattle Times
Saturday, January 31, 11:00 a.m. | Accept no substitute: Bondarchuk’s WAR AND PEACE is the definitive adaptation of Leo Tolstoy’s epic classic (no offense, King Vidor). Made at the height of the Cold War, the Soviet film industry set out to dazzle with a production that would offer a singular cinematic experience, employing a cast of thousands, implementing an array of cinematic camera techniques - including the first use of remote controlled camera, among other tricks - and crafting a sweeping vision of glittering rococo aesthetics and astonishing Napoleonic battles to do so. The effort set a new standard for epic moviemaking. Rarely shown in its entirety, Bondarchuk’s daring vision is best appreciated with a comprehensive viewing, wherein the romance of the text is brought to breathtaking life. Program includes three intermissions.
Awards & Nominations
Winner - Best Foreign Language Film, Academy Awards
Winner - Best Foreign Language Film, National Board of Review, USA
Settle In | January 3–31, 2026
Binge watching a television show or catching a double feature? Child’s play. Prove your passion for pacing with five presentations that test the limits of runtimes, lean into their length, and invite you to Settle In. Ticket holders have the option to add a boxed lunch ($16) to their experience courtesy of our friends at Goddess And The Baker (must be ordered at least 72 hours in advance).
Member tickets on sale now! General public tickets on sale Monday, December 15. Become a Siskel Film Center member to unlock early access and start saving at every movie. Plus, if you join or renew by the end of the year, you'll get one free month and a limited-edition "I prefer my films projected" magnet on us. Become a member today.
The Film Center is ADA accessible. This presentation will be projected without open captions. The theater is hearing-loop equipped. For accessibility requests, please email filmcenter@saic.edu