Our presentation focuses on the 1965 film Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors, directed by Sergei Parajanov. The film is widely regarded as avant-garde, anti-conformist, and political in its nature. Parajanov challenged the Soviet regime by rejecting socialist realism, the state-mandated artistic style designed to glorify communism and Soviet values. Instead, the film embraces a unique visual style, celebrating Ukrainian folklore, traditions, and cultural identity. This film indirectly critiqued Soviet oppression, making it a landmark in the history of politically charged cinema. We will be diving into the different strategies that were utilized, which set this film apart from films we see today.