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An exceptionally rare and historically significant masterpiece of mid-century Soviet cinema and graphic art! This is an original vintage movie poster printed via traditional offset lithography in Bulgaria for the legendary 1956 drama classic "They Were the First" ("Они были первыми" / "Те бяха първи"). Directed by the prominent filmmaker Yuri Egorov and produced by the iconic Gorky Film Studio (USSR), this cinematic milestone is a powerful, highly celebrated production that captured the romanticism, historical weight, and heroism of the early post-revolution era.
The artwork features a breathtaking and deeply atmospheric illustration capturing the heavy emotional tension and patriotic courage of the story. It showcases a magnificent central portrait of a young, resolute protagonist (portrayed unforgettably by elite star Georgi Yumatov), carrying a wounded comrade in his arms against a vivid background. In the lower section, fellow young volunteers and defenders with military hats and winter gear stand determinedly, enhancing the dramatic narrative weight of the illustration. Below the beautifully executed artwork is the bold, prominent period typography "ТЕ БЯХА ПЪРВИ" in a striking orange-yellow tone. Printed for the film's theatrical release in Bulgaria, the traditional offset lithography delivers outstanding ink density, intense dark charcoal contrasts, rich primary red backgrounds, and a gorgeous mid-century textured patina.
Provenance:
This spectacular poster comes from a highly prestigious private collection. This careful long-term preservation accounts for its spectacular condition and magnificent color retention over the decades.
Product Details:
- Film Title: Oni byli pervymi / They Were the First (Те бяха първи)
- Year of Film Production: 1956
- Director: Yuri Egorov (Ю. Егоров)
- Screenplay by: Yuri Egorov, Yuzef Printsev
- Music by: Mark Fradkin (М. Фрадкин)
- Starring: Georgi Yumatov, Liliana Alyoshnikova, Mark Bernes, Mikhail Ulyanov
- Production Studio: Gorky Film Studio, CCCP (USSR)
- Exact Dimensions: 695 mm x 484 mm (approx. 27.3 x 19.0 inches)
- Printing Technique: Original Offset Lithography
- Language: Bulgarian ("Съветски игрален филм")
- Era: 1950s Soviet Era Cinema Classic / Historical Revolution & Military Memorabilia
Condition Report:
(Please inspect the photos carefully for exact cosmetic condition):
The poster is in good vintage used condition considering it is around 70 years old. It features solid paper structure and very good color preservation. It displays authentic period handling characteristics, including faint hand-written archival/theatrical notes in the margins. These period markings indicate that this poster was used for an actual theatrical film screening during the 1950s. Shows soft natural edge toning, minor handling creases, and small mounting pin wear at the borders, displaying beautifully as a genuine cinema-used artifact.
Shipping & Packaging:
The poster will be packed with professional care and shipped inside a sturdy, hard cardboard tube to ensure safe delivery worldwide.
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