- The Twelve Chairs (1971)
- The Unfinished Piece for the Player Piano (1977)
- The Very Same Munchhausen (1979)
- The Pokrovsky Gate (1982)
- The Circus Princess (1982)
- The House That Swift Built (1982)
- The Star of Captivating Happiness (1975)
- The Irony of Fate (1975)
- The Adventures of a Dentist (1965)
- The Garage (1979)
Soviet cinema has always had a unique way of exploring the lives of artists, particularly actors. This collection of films delves into the world of Soviet actors, showcasing their struggles, triumphs, and the art of performance itself. These films not only entertain but also provide a window into the cultural and historical context of Soviet filmmaking, making them invaluable for cinephiles and those interested in the art of acting.

The Twelve Chairs (1971)
Description: This comedy, based on Ilf and Petrov's novel, features a con artist who pretends to be an actor, providing a humorous take on the acting profession.
Fact: The film was directed by Leonid Gaidai, a master of Soviet comedy, and it includes a memorable performance by Andrei Mironov, who was known for his comedic roles.


The Unfinished Piece for the Player Piano (1977)
Description: This film, based on a Chekhov play, explores the lives of actors in a provincial theatre, offering a poignant look at the art of performance.
Fact: The film was directed by Nikita Mikhalkov, who also stars in it, and it was one of the first Soviet films to openly address the theme of artistic freedom.


The Very Same Munchhausen (1979)
Description: A whimsical take on the life of Baron Munchhausen, this film uses the character to explore the nature of storytelling and acting.
Fact: The film was based on a play by Grigori Gorin, and its director, Mark Zakharov, was known for his innovative approach to Soviet cinema.


The Pokrovsky Gate (1982)
Description: This film captures the life of a Soviet actor through the lens of a communal apartment, showcasing the daily struggles and comedic moments of the profession.
Fact: The film was one of the first Soviet films to openly discuss the housing crisis and features a memorable performance by Oleg Menshikov.


The Circus Princess (1982)
Description: This film follows the life of a circus performer who dreams of becoming an actress. It's a charming blend of comedy, romance, and the backstage drama of Soviet theatre.
Fact: The film was shot in the famous Moscow Circus on Tsvetnoy Boulevard, and the lead actress, Larisa Udovichenko, was herself a former circus performer.


The House That Swift Built (1982)
Description: A satirical look at the life of a Soviet actor, this film uses the metaphor of a house to explore the complexities of fame and artistic integrity.
Fact: The film was directed by Mark Zakharov, who was known for his satirical takes on Soviet society, and it features a cameo by the legendary Soviet actor, Evgeny Evstigneev.


The Star of Captivating Happiness (1975)
Description: This epic drama tells the story of the Decembrists, focusing on the personal lives of the actors portraying these historical figures, offering a meta-narrative on acting.
Fact: The film was shot in various historical locations, including the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg, and features a large ensemble cast of Soviet stars.


The Irony of Fate (1975)
Description: While not exclusively about actors, this beloved Soviet New Year's comedy features actors playing actors, exploring themes of identity and performance.
Fact: The film has become a cultural phenomenon in Russia, with many traditions surrounding its annual broadcast, and it was directed by Eldar Ryazanov, a master of Soviet comedy.


The Adventures of a Dentist (1965)
Description: This film, while primarily about a dentist, delves into the world of theatre and acting through the protagonist's unexpected foray into the arts.
Fact: The film was directed by Elem Klimov, who later directed the acclaimed "Come and See," and it features a young Andrei Myagkov, who would become a prominent Soviet actor.


The Garage (1979)
Description: Although not directly about actors, this satirical comedy features actors portraying various professions, including an actor, highlighting the absurdity of Soviet bureaucracy.
Fact: The film was directed by Eldar Ryazanov, and it includes a scene where the characters vote on who should lose their garage, reflecting real-life Soviet practices.
