Coming Out of the Ice

The movie is not faithful to the book. I would say maybe 50% of the scenes follow the book, but are so "watered down" (it is rated PG, but Herman's experience was much more horrible than could be captured in a PG movie) as to give a wrong impression and even to trivialize what Herman accomplished in just surviving the gulags. The other 50% of the scenes are just additions by the script writer and not in the book...The acting is, however, good.

It will be up to somebody like Spielberg to capture the book for the big screen...it would then hopefully be like "Schindler's List", but instead for the millions that Stalin exterminated in the Siberian gulags...


Life in a Soviet Gulag   April 3, 2000
Darrell Criswell (San Antonio, TX)
7 out of 11 found this review helpful

This is a fabulous movie about the life of Charles Voorman who lived in Russia in the 30's and was imprisoned in a Soviet Gulag in Siberia for 40 years. Both a great humanitarian story and interesting from a political standpoint. Willie Nelson plays a friend of Charlie and does a fabulous job of acting. Highly recommended.


Coming out of the ice   December 5, 2007
Danno
I am interested in Russia and these type of Personal experience stories so for the me the movie was interesting.
I did feel that it could never be mistaken for a real move but rather a low budget 4 TV production.
Limited sets and music, acting was okay,the NY accent was too heavy and distracting.
The story line is impressive and the only thing which makes this movie enjoyable. If you like Russian history and Persons overcoming lifes trials you will enjoy it.


Book is MUCH better - the movie has much to be desired   December 27, 2007
John Sigmon (Norman, Oklahoma)
"Coming Out of the Ice" by Victor Herman is one of the greatest books of all time - if you haven't read it yet, go find a used copy ASAP. It will bless your life, your perspectives will change, and you will be less likely to take anything for granted again.

Unfortunately, the movie adaption of this book was a disappointment. Ninety minutes and a shoestring budget cannot come near to adequately filming this amazing story.

This movie needs to be remade into a 3+ hour blockbuster, with an ample budget, and someone of Spielberg's caliber in the director's chair.

Truly a great story of a man who survived unimaginable odds, refused to be defeated, and ultimately triumphed over all his foes.


Underrated! Very moving video for families to learn from!   September 27, 2008
Integrity Trainer (Northbrook, IL USA)
This video does an outstanding job of conveying historically accurate truths about the hideous results of atheist-based communism like extremely few books and videos do. I'm concerned that other reviewer's criticism of the non-Hollywood quality may keep you from viewing it. This video was so professionally done that it was broadcast during prime time by CBS. Watch it and gain wisdom. Five stars from me.