- The Blue Bird (1976)
- The Irony of Fate, or Enjoy Your Bath! (1975)
- The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson: The Hound of the Baskervilles (1981)
- The French Lessons (1978)
- The Meeting Place Cannot Be Changed (1979)
- The Return of the Resident (1982)
- The Star and Death of Joaquin Murieta (1982)
- The Mystery of the Third Planet (1981)
- The Adventures of Buratino (1975)
- The Adventures of the Yellow Suitcase (1970)
France has always held a special place in the hearts of Soviet filmmakers, serving as a backdrop for stories of love, intrigue, and cultural exchange. This collection showcases ten Soviet films that capture the essence of France, offering viewers a unique perspective on French life, culture, and history through the eyes of Soviet directors. These films not only provide a cinematic journey across the border but also reflect the fascination and sometimes the romanticized view of France from the Soviet Union.

The Blue Bird (1976)
Description: This enchanting adaptation of Maurice Maeterlinck's play takes viewers on a magical journey through the Land of Memory, where two children search for the Blue Bird of Happiness. The film's settings are inspired by French fairy tales, making it a fitting entry into our list.
Fact: The film was a co-production between the Soviet Union, the United States, and France, with scenes shot in both the USSR and France.


The Irony of Fate, or Enjoy Your Bath! (1975)
Description: While not set in France, this iconic Soviet New Year's Eve comedy features a memorable scene where the protagonist, Zhenya, mistakenly flies to Leningrad instead of Moscow, a plot twist that could easily be imagined happening in Paris.
Fact: The film's popularity led to a sequel in 2007, which also includes scenes set in Paris.


The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson: The Hound of the Baskervilles (1981)
Description: Although primarily set in England, this adaptation of Conan Doyle's classic includes scenes in Paris, showcasing the city's charm and mystery through the eyes of the famous detective duo.
Fact: The series was so popular that it was dubbed into English for international distribution.


The French Lessons (1978)
Description: This heartwarming film tells the story of a Soviet boy who falls in love with his French teacher, exploring themes of cultural exchange and the allure of the French language.
Fact: The film was shot in the Soviet Union but includes scenes that evoke the atmosphere of a French countryside.


The Meeting Place Cannot Be Changed (1979)
Description: This crime series features a subplot where the main character, Sharapov, travels to Paris to track down a criminal, providing a glimpse into the French criminal underworld.
Fact: The series was so beloved that it inspired a Russian musical in


The Return of the Resident (1982)
Description: A Soviet spy thriller where the protagonist, a KGB agent, operates in Paris, showcasing the city's espionage allure during the Cold War era.
Fact: The film was part of a popular series about Soviet intelligence operations abroad.


The Star and Death of Joaquin Murieta (1982)
Description: Although set in California, this film's poetic narrative style and themes of freedom and rebellion resonate with the spirit of French Romanticism.
Fact: The film was inspired by a poem by Pablo Neruda, reflecting the international appeal of its themes.


The Mystery of the Third Planet (1981)
Description: This animated sci-fi adventure includes a visit to a planet with a French-like atmosphere, complete with a café and a charming alien named Alice.
Fact: The film has gained a cult following and has been dubbed into English.


The Adventures of Buratino (1975)
Description: This adaptation of Carlo Collodi's "The Adventures of Pinocchio" includes scenes that evoke the charm of French puppet theater, with its whimsical settings and characters.
Fact: The film was one of the first Soviet animated features to be dubbed into English.


The Adventures of the Yellow Suitcase (1970)
Description: This comedy-drama involves a Soviet man who travels to Paris to retrieve a lost suitcase, leading to humorous misunderstandings and cultural clashes.
Fact: The film was shot in the Soviet Union but includes scenes that mimic the Parisian setting.
