“Firebird” (2021) is a historical romantic drama directed by Peeter Rebane, based on the true story of a forbidden love affair during the Cold War. Itโs adapted from Sergey Fetisovโs memoir The Story of Roman.
Set in the late 1970s in Soviet-occupied Estonia, the film follows Sergey Serebrennikov (played by Tom Prior), a young private serving his mandatory military service at an airbase. Sergey dreams of escaping the military to pursue a life in the arts. His life changes when he meets Roman Matvejev (played by Oleg Zagorodnii), a charismatic fighter pilot.
A friendship develops between the two men, which soon blossoms into a passionate and deeply forbidden romance. Their love puts them at constant risk, as homosexual relationships are criminalized under Soviet law and strictly forbidden within the military.
As their bond grows stronger, they must navigate the constant threat of exposure, the pressures of military duty, and the societal expectations that force them to live in secrecy. The presence of Luisa (played by Diana Pozharskaya), a young woman who has feelings for Sergey, adds further complications to their already precarious situation.
The film captures their struggle for love in a world that seeks to deny it, portraying the cost of their relationship amid the oppressive and dangerous environment of the Cold War.
“Firebird” was praised for its emotional depth, strong performances, and compelling cinematography. Critics and audiences noted the chemistry between Tom Prior and Oleg Zagorodnii, which brought authenticity to their relationship.
The film also received attention for shedding light on a lesser-known aspect of LGBTQ+ history during a time of extreme persecution. While some found the pacing slower in parts, the overall impact of the story and its message resonated strongly.