- The Hound of the Baskervilles (1981)
- The Twelve Chairs (1971)
- The Irony of Fate (1975)
- The Diamond Arm (1969)
- The Meeting Place Cannot Be Changed (1979)
- The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson (1980)
- The Black Square (1982)
- The Mystery of the Third Planet (1981)
- The Return of the Musketeers, or The Treasures of Cardinal Mazarin (1989)
- The Shadow (1972)
Soviet cinema, often known for its propaganda and social realism, also explored darker themes through films featuring complex and often malevolent characters. These Soviet supervillain movies offer a unique blend of suspense, psychological depth, and sometimes even a touch of the supernatural. Here are ten films that delve into the minds of some of the most memorable villains in Soviet film history, providing a fascinating look at the portrayal of evil in a different era.

The Hound of the Baskervilles (1981)
Description: In this adaptation, the villainous Stapleton adds a layer of intrigue and danger to the classic tale, making him a memorable supervillain in the Soviet cinematic landscape.
Fact: The film was shot in the picturesque landscapes of the Caucasus, adding to its atmospheric setting.


The Twelve Chairs (1971)
Description: Ostap Bender, a charming con artist, is the central villain in this satirical comedy, where he and his partner search for hidden jewels in one of twelve chairs.
Fact: The film was so popular that it spawned a sequel, "The Little Golden Calf," continuing the adventures of Ostap Bender.


The Irony of Fate (1975)
Description: While not a traditional supervillain film, the character of Zhenya's friend, who tries to sabotage his relationship, embodies a kind of everyday villainy, making this New Year's classic a surprising addition to our list.
Fact: This film is traditionally watched by millions of Russians every New Year's Eve, and its popularity has led to a sequel in


The Diamond Arm (1969)
Description: This comedy features a band of smugglers, led by the charismatic yet villainous Gesha, who mistake an innocent man for their courier, leading to a series of comedic misadventures.
Fact: The film was shot in various locations around the Soviet Union, including Yalta and Sochi, showcasing the country's diverse landscapes.


The Meeting Place Cannot Be Changed (1979)
Description: This crime series features the notorious gang leader, Fox, who becomes the nemesis of the protagonist, Sharapov, in a gripping cat-and-mouse game set in post-war Moscow.
Fact: The series was so beloved that it inspired a stage play and several spin-offs.


The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson (1980)
Description: While not Soviet in origin, the Soviet adaptation of Conan Doyle's stories features Professor Moriarty as the ultimate supervillain, providing a chilling portrayal of Holmes' arch-enemy.
Fact: The series was so well-received that it led to multiple sequels and even a Soviet-British co-production.


The Black Square (1982)
Description: This film features a mysterious and malevolent artist who uses his art to commit crimes, blending psychological horror with crime thriller elements.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life avant-garde art movement in Russia, particularly the works of Kazimir Malevich.


The Mystery of the Third Planet (1981)
Description: While primarily a children's animated film, the villainous pirate captain, who seeks to steal a valuable artifact, adds a darker edge to this space adventure.
Fact: This film is considered one of the best Soviet animated films, known for its unique art style and memorable characters.


The Return of the Musketeers, or The Treasures of Cardinal Mazarin (1989)
Description: In this sequel to the Soviet adaptation of "The Three Musketeers," the villainous Cardinal Mazarin plots against the heroes, showcasing political intrigue and villainy.
Fact: This film was one of the last major Soviet productions before the dissolution of the USSR.


The Shadow (1972)
Description: This psychological thriller features a mysterious figure known only as "The Shadow," who manipulates and terrorizes the protagonist, making him a unique supervillain in Soviet cinema.
Fact: The film was noted for its experimental approach to storytelling, blending elements of noir and psychological horror.
