- The Commissar (1967)
- The Unfinished Piece for the Player Piano (1977)
- The Pokrovsky Gate (1982)
- The Tailor from Torzhok (1975)
- The House on the Embankment (1976)
- The Seventh Companion (1967)
- The Old New Year (1980)
- The Circus (1936)
- The Star of Captivating Happiness (1975)
- The Adventures of the Yellow Suitcase (1970)
Embark on a cinematic journey through the Soviet Union's portrayal of Jewish life, culture, and history. This curated selection of films not only showcases the diverse experiences of Jewish characters but also highlights the nuanced storytelling of Soviet filmmakers. These movies provide a window into the past, reflecting on themes of identity, tradition, and the complexities of living in a multi-ethnic society. Whether you're interested in cultural history or just looking for compelling narratives, this collection promises to enrich your understanding and appreciation of Jewish life in the Soviet era.

The Commissar (1967)
Description: This film, set during the Russian Civil War, tells the story of a female commissar who takes refuge with a Jewish family. It's a poignant exploration of the intersection of war, motherhood, and Jewish identity.
Fact: The film was banned in the Soviet Union for nearly 20 years due to its sensitive portrayal of Jewish life and was only released after the director's death.


The Unfinished Piece for the Player Piano (1977)
Description: This film, based on Chekhov's play, includes a Jewish character and explores themes of love, betrayal, and the clash of old and new worlds.
Fact: It was one of the first Soviet films to openly discuss the cultural and social issues faced by Jewish intellectuals in the late 19th century.


The Pokrovsky Gate (1982)
Description: This film captures the life of a Jewish family in Moscow during the 1950s, offering a comedic yet insightful look at the cultural and political changes of the era.
Fact: It was one of the first Soviet films to openly discuss the impact of Stalin's purges on Jewish families.


The Tailor from Torzhok (1975)
Description: A light-hearted comedy about a tailor who travels to Moscow for a competition, encountering various adventures along the way. It subtly touches on Jewish themes through its characters and settings.
Fact: The film was one of the first Soviet comedies to feature Jewish characters in a positive light, reflecting a shift in cultural representation.


The House on the Embankment (1976)
Description: Set in a prestigious Moscow apartment building, this film explores the lives of its residents, including a Jewish family, during the turbulent times of Soviet history.
Fact: The film was based on real events and people who lived in the famous House on the Embankment, which was a hub for intellectuals and political figures.


The Seventh Companion (1967)
Description: A drama about a group of prisoners, including a Jewish character, who escape from a Nazi camp during WWII, highlighting themes of survival and solidarity.
Fact: This film was one of the first Soviet movies to depict the Holocaust and the plight of Jews during WWII.


The Old New Year (1980)
Description: A New Year's comedy that follows the life of a Jewish family in Moscow, blending humor with the cultural nuances of Jewish traditions.
Fact: The film was popular for its depiction of Jewish customs and was one of the few Soviet films to openly celebrate Jewish holidays.


The Circus (1936)
Description: While not exclusively about Jewish life, this classic Soviet film features a Jewish character and addresses themes of tolerance and acceptance.
Fact: It was one of the first Soviet films to promote the idea of a multi-ethnic Soviet Union.


The Star of Captivating Happiness (1975)
Description: This epic historical drama includes a subplot involving a Jewish family during the Decembrist uprising, offering a glimpse into Jewish life in the 19th century.
Fact: The film was praised for its historical accuracy and the portrayal of various ethnic groups, including Jews.


The Adventures of the Yellow Suitcase (1970)
Description: A whimsical tale about a yellow suitcase that brings together various characters, including a Jewish family, in a series of comedic misadventures.
Fact: The film subtly promotes the idea of cultural diversity and unity within the Soviet Union.
