112 Essential Soviet and Russian Films
112 titles
- 101
The Evening SacrificeMovie · 1987 · 20mOn May 1st, a traditional Soviet holiday, a large celebration unfolds, marked by fireworks and displays. But the event devolves into a chaotic scene, with participants losing coordination and acting without direction or purpose.IMDb 6.8TMDB 3.9 - 102
12Movie · 2007 · 159m · Crime, Drama, MysteryInspired by "12 Angry Men," "12" takes place in modern-day Moscow. Twelve diverse men must reach a unanimous verdict on a young Chechen man accused of murdering his stepfather, a Russian army officer. They gather in a school gymnasium to deliberate. As the jury considers the case, each man reveals his perspective, sharing personal stories and confronting his own biases. Meanwhile, the accused reflects on his past experiences during the war, as the verdict hangs in the balance.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.6 - 103
Five EveningsMovie · 1978 · 103m"Five Evenings" is set in the late 1950s. Aleksandr Petrovich Ilyin returns to the city where he lived before World War II. While visiting a telephone operator named Zoya, he spots a familiar house and impulsively decides to visit for just fifteen minutes. He ends up in a communal apartment where Tamara Vasilyevna, the woman he loved twenty years ago, now lives. They were separated by the war, but their reunion reignites their passionate love.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.0 - 104
And Nothing MoreMovie · 1987 · 70mThis film examines the Allied coalition of the USSR, England, and America formed to oppose Nazi Germany's aggression during World War II. Using rare newsreel footage from all sides of the conflict, the film connects these historical images with reflections on the post-war world. It considers the humanitarian costs of the war and explores fragile hopes for global unity in the face of evil.IMDb 7.4TMDB 4.5 - 105
The ItalianMovie · 2005 · 90m · DramaIn 2002, a five-year-old boy who has been left alone in a neglected orphanage in a remote Russian village is adopted by an Italian family.Stream onIMDb 7.5TMDB 6.7
- 106
When the Trees Were TallMovie · 1961 · 95mThis is the story of a man who avoids responsibility, constantly complains about his luck, drinks heavily, and avoids work. However, when he unexpectedly becomes a father figure to a young woman, he begins to change his life.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.7 - 107
Tale of TalesMovie · 1979 · 29m · AnimationThis film follows a young gray wolf whose childhood memories illuminate Russia’s history and cultural heritage. Vivid visuals bring these recollections to life, offering glimpses into the past as the wolf journeys across the Russian landscape. The film explores the beauty of the country and its complex cultural traditions, revealing a deeper understanding of Russian identity and the enduring connections between its people. It's a moving story about memory, nostalgia, and the bond between animals and humanity.Stream onIMDb 7.8TMDB 7.3
- 108
Romance for LoversMovie · 1974 · 135mSergei and Tanya are deeply in love. Sergei is drafted into the marine corps, and Tanya waits for his return. His unit is sent to assist people in need, but gets cut off. During the operation, Sergei's armored vehicle is swept into the sea. His family is notified of his death. Tanya finds comfort in her childhood friend, a hockey player, and they marry. However, Sergei survived and, with a wounded comrade, is found on a deserted island after enduring a harsh winter. Returning home, he discovers Tanya has remarried. Unable to cope with the loss of his love, Sergei experiences a profound emotional breakdown. Yet, he eventually rebuilds his life, finding happiness with another woman, marrying her, and starting a family. The film concludes with Sergei undergoing a spiritual renewal.IMDb 6.8TMDB 5.0 - 109
Three from ProstokvashinoMovie · 1978 · 17m · AnimationYoung Fedor forms an unlikely friendship with a talking cat, much to his mother's dismay. Intrigued, Fedor brings the cat home, leading to unforeseen adventures. Exploring their neighborhood, they meet a variety of interesting people who share their own stories, highlighting the importance of real connections. This charming story is about friendship, family, and how unexpected bonds can change us, promising a heartwarming experience full of laughter, emotion, and delightful moments.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.3 - 110
Country of the DeafMovie · 1998 · 105mStrana Glukhikh tells the story of an unconventional bond between two women: a deaf-mute dancer and a woman fleeing the mafia. Yaya, the dancer, proposes to hide Rita, whose boyfriend Alyosha owes money to the mafia. In exchange, Yaya wants Rita to leave him and join her on a journey to a mythical paradise where possessions are unimportant.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.7 - 111
Blood TiesMovie · 1964 · 83mWhile returning home from the hospital, Tank crew Officer Fedotov meets Sonya, a young mother of three. After his discharge from the military, he begins a relationship with her. Their happiness is brief; Sonya falls ill and dies. Soon after, her husband arrives to claim his children, taking only the youngest son with him.IMDb 7.3TMDB 4.1 - 112
Alexander NevskyMovie · 1938 · 109m · Drama, History, WarIn medieval Russia, Prince Alexander Nevsky confronts a major threat when German knights invade. He resolves to protect his people and land by uniting them against the strong Teutonic army that has taken over an eastern city. Alexander assembles his forces for a crucial battle on the ice of Lake Chudskoe near Novgorod. The battle tests loyalty, courage, and tradition. During the intense conflict, two soldiers, Vasili and Gavrilo, become involved in a personal struggle for honor and love, adding a human element to the historical event.Stream onIMDb 7.4TMDB 7.1
