4. The Ascent (1977)
Yep. Husband Elem Klimov and wife Larisa Shepitko both have films appearing in this list and it really would have been a no-brainer to omit any one of them. Elem Klimov's wife Larisa Shepitko died in a road accident at an unfair age (only 41). Probably, one of the most cruel deaths that affected the world of cinema alongside Jean Vigo's. Of course, before her death, she left us with this masterpiece and made sure the world knew that they missed out on a lot more because of the incident. Now, this is not really a film totally dedicated to atrocities war; it's a look into human nature, contrast of courage and cowardice is the main theme here. There is no glorification and some grim incidents are happening here and there but the character development is the most important aspect. It's magnificent film that will keep you on your toes till the last minute and elegant story that I don't wanna give out and spoil the whole experience for you. The direction also tells you, she could have have given Agnès Varda a run for her money for the position of the greatest female director that ever lived.