“The vow, latest Soviet opus, just misses being a great picture, and also being one of finest turned out by the Russians. This near-miss stems form the way that the late war is handled by the Soviet producers in an overly long, vaguely done sequel to the main theme of the story. This part ofthe film leads one to believe that the Russians won the war. lnfact, this propaganda phase of the production isso blatantly done it will make the average American patron squirm. And it is unfortunate, because marring an otherwise superb production. Picture’s titie steme from thefact that Stalin pledges to let no one destroy Lenin and his legacy.Yarn has the typical Russian mother going to Stalin to tell of her fears about the big war. The Soviet leader confirms her suspicione but says Russia will survive because the Soviets are accustomed to trials and hardships. Mikhail Ciaureli turns in a splendid job of directing. Infact, he proves himself a better director than scripter. (Variety, June 25, 1947)