- The Meeting Place Cannot Be Changed (1979)
- The Criminal Quartet (1989)
- The Black Triangle (1981)
- The Adventures of a Dentist (1965)
- The Return of the Resident (1982)
- The Case of "Dead Souls" (1984)
- The Criminal Case of the "Black Cat" (1971)
- The Criminal Case of the "Red Triangle" (1979)
- The Criminal Case of the "Green Hat" (1985)
- The Criminal Case of the "Blue Bird" (1970)
Soviet cinema has often delved into the darker corners of society, exploring themes of crime, power, and moral ambiguity. This curated list of Soviet gangster films offers a unique glimpse into the underworld of the USSR, showcasing how filmmakers portrayed the struggle between law and lawlessness. Each film in this collection not only provides thrilling narratives but also reflects the socio-political climate of its time, making them invaluable for both cinephiles and those interested in Soviet history.
The Meeting Place Cannot Be Changed (1979)
Description: This iconic TV series follows the adventures of Gleb Zheglov, a tough-as-nails Soviet detective, and his partner Sharapov as they hunt down a notorious gang in post-war Moscow. Its portrayal of the criminal underworld and the moral dilemmas faced by law enforcement make it a staple in Soviet gangster cinema.
Fact: The series was so popular that the phrase "You are arrested!" became a cultural meme in Russia. The main character, Zheglov, was inspired by real-life Soviet detective Vladimir Ovchinnikov.
30 Days Free 
The Criminal Quartet (1989)
Description: Set in the late 1940s, this film tells the story of four criminals who form a gang to pull off a series of heists. It's a gritty look at the criminal life in the Soviet Union, highlighting the tension between the underworld and the authorities.
Fact: The film was one of the last Soviet gangster films before the dissolution of the USSR, reflecting the changing times and the rise of organized crime.
30 Days Free 
The Black Triangle (1981)
Description: This film explores the life of a criminal gang in the 1920s, focusing on their complex relationships and the harsh realities of their existence. It's a deep dive into the psyche of criminals and the societal conditions that breed crime.
Fact: The film was shot in black and white to give it an authentic feel of the era it depicts.
30 Days Free The Adventures of a Dentist (1965)
Description: While not strictly a gangster film, this comedy-drama features a dentist who inadvertently gets involved with a gang. It's a satirical look at the intersection of ordinary life and the criminal world.
Fact: The film was directed by Elem Klimov, who later directed the famous anti-war film "Come and See."
30 Days Free The Return of the Resident (1982)
Description: This film follows a Soviet spy who returns to his homeland to dismantle a criminal network. It combines elements of espionage with the gritty portrayal of the criminal underworld.
Fact: The film was part of a series about Soviet intelligence officers, showcasing the intersection of spycraft and crime.
30 Days Free The Case of "Dead Souls" (1984)
Description: Based on Gogol's novel, this film adaptation adds a criminal twist, focusing on a detective investigating a series of mysterious deaths linked to a gang's activities.
Fact: The film was one of the first to adapt classic Russian literature into a crime thriller.
30 Days Free The Criminal Case of the "Black Cat" (1971)
Description: This film delves into the investigation of a gang known as the "Black Cat," exploring themes of corruption, betrayal, and the struggle for justice.
Fact: The film was shot in Leningrad, providing a rich backdrop for the story.
30 Days Free The Criminal Case of the "Red Triangle" (1979)
Description: A detective story set in the 1920s, this film follows the investigation of a gang using a red triangle as their symbol, offering a historical perspective on Soviet crime.
Fact: The film was part of a series of detective stories set in different historical periods.
30 Days Free The Criminal Case of the "Green Hat" (1985)
Description: This film focuses on a detective's pursuit of a gang known for their distinctive green hats, blending elements of crime drama with historical intrigue.
Fact: The film was one of the last in the series of detective stories set in the Soviet Union.
30 Days Free The Criminal Case of the "Blue Bird" (1970)
Description: A detective story centered around a gang known as the "Blue Bird," this film explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the pursuit of justice in a post-revolutionary Russia.
Fact: The film was shot in various locations across the Soviet Union, providing a diverse visual narrative.
30 Days Free 
