- The Twelve Chairs (1971)
- The Return of Budulai (1985)
- The Garage (1979)
- The Irony of Fate (1975)
- The Diamond Arm (1968)
- The Meeting Place Cannot Be Changed (1979)
- The Adventures of a Dentist (1965)
- The Station Master (1972)
- The Private Life of Pyotr Vinogradov (1974)
- The Unfinished Piece for the Player Piano (1977)
The Soviet Union, often associated with state-controlled economy, surprisingly produced a number of films exploring the world of business and entrepreneurship. These films offer a unique glimpse into the Soviet interpretation of capitalism, business ethics, and the personal struggles of those navigating the economic landscape of the time. Here's a curated list of 10 Soviet films that delve into the lives of businessmen, now available with English dubbing or subtitles, providing a fascinating look at business through a Soviet lens.
The Twelve Chairs (1971)
Description: A classic Soviet comedy about a former aristocrat and a con artist searching for hidden jewels in one of twelve chairs. It showcases the entrepreneurial spirit and the lengths people would go to for wealth in a society where private business was officially discouraged.
Fact: The film was based on a novel by Ilf and Petrov, which was itself a satire on Soviet society.
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The Return of Budulai (1985)
Description: This film tells the story of a gypsy who becomes a successful businessman, exploring themes of identity, wealth, and societal integration in the Soviet Union.
Fact: The character of Budulai was so popular that he appeared in several films over the years.
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The Garage (1979)
Description: This satirical comedy by Eldar Ryazanov explores the absurdities of Soviet bureaucracy through the story of a group of garage owners trying to save their parking spots. It's a perfect example of how business was intertwined with personal relationships and corruption in the Soviet era.
Fact: The film was one of the most popular Soviet comedies, reflecting the everyday life and humor of the time.
30 Days Free The Irony of Fate (1975)
Description: While not directly about business, this film features a protagonist who is an architect, showcasing the professional life in the Soviet Union. It's included for its portrayal of career and personal life balance, a theme often explored in business narratives.
Fact: It's a New Year's tradition in Russia to watch this film, making it one of the most beloved Soviet movies.
30 Days Free The Diamond Arm (1968)
Description: This comedy involves a regular citizen who unwittingly becomes part of a smuggling operation, highlighting the underworld of business in the Soviet Union, including black market dealings and corruption.
Fact: The film's script was initially rejected by censors for its portrayal of Soviet society but was later approved with some changes.
30 Days Free The Meeting Place Cannot Be Changed (1979)
Description: This crime drama series features a detective who deals with various criminal elements, including businessmen involved in illegal activities, providing insight into the darker side of Soviet business practices.
Fact: The series was so popular that it led to a sequel and several spin-offs.
30 Days Free The Adventures of a Dentist (1965)
Description: This film follows a dentist who tries to navigate the bureaucratic and ethical challenges of his profession, reflecting the complexities of business in a planned economy.
Fact: The film was directed by Elem Klimov, who later gained international fame with "Come and See."
30 Days Free The Station Master (1972)
Description: While primarily a drama, this film includes elements of business through the portrayal of the station master's life, showing how personal ambition and duty intersect with the economic realities of the time.
Fact: The film is based on a story by Alexander Pushkin, bringing a classic literary work to the screen.
30 Days Free The Private Life of Pyotr Vinogradov (1974)
Description: This film delves into the life of a Soviet engineer, showcasing the challenges of career advancement and personal life, which often mirrored the business world's dynamics.
Fact: The film was one of the first to openly discuss the issues of career and personal life balance in Soviet society.
30 Days Free The Unfinished Piece for the Player Piano (1977)
Description: This adaptation of Chekhov's play includes characters dealing with estate management and business, offering a historical perspective on entrepreneurship in Russia.
Fact: The film was directed by Nikita Mikhalkov, who later became one of Russia's most renowned filmmakers.
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