Soviet Skyscraper Films: A Cinematic Journey to the Top

Soviet Skyscraper Films: A Cinematic Journey to the Top Uncategorised

Soviet cinema has often explored themes of progress, ambition, and the human spirit through the lens of architecture. This collection of films focuses on skyscrapers, not just as structures but as symbols of aspiration, innovation, and sometimes, the challenges of urban life. These movies provide a fascinating look at how Soviet filmmakers envisioned the future of cities and the lives of their inhabitants, offering a blend of drama, science fiction, and social commentary. Whether it's the towering ambitions of the characters or the literal heights of the buildings, these films are a testament to the era's cinematic creativity.

The Diamond Arm (1968)
TRAILER

The Diamond Arm (1968)

Description: While not about skyscrapers, this comedy involves a chase through various urban settings, including high-rise buildings, reflecting the changing landscape of Soviet cities.

Fact: The film was shot in several locations, including Odessa, which was depicted as a bustling, modern city.

Amazon Prime Video Watch Now
The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson (1980)
TRAILER

The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson (1980)

Description: In one episode, the characters navigate through a high-rise building, showcasing the architectural marvels of the time and adding a unique Soviet twist to the classic detective story.

Fact: This series was highly popular and remains one of the most beloved adaptations of Conan Doyle's works in the Soviet Union.

This movie is not available on Amazon Prime, but you can use the bonus:
Amazon Prime Video 30 Days Free
The Twelve Chairs (1971)
TRAILER

The Twelve Chairs (1971)

Description: This satirical comedy features a quest for hidden treasure, with scenes set in various architectural settings, including high-rise buildings, symbolizing the search for value in a rapidly changing society.

Fact: The film was adapted from a novel by Ilf and Petrov and has been remade several times, showcasing its enduring popularity.

This movie is not available on Amazon Prime, but you can use the bonus:
Amazon Prime Video 30 Days Free
The House on the Embankment (1976)
TRAILER

The House on the Embankment (1976)

Description: This film delves into the lives of residents in a prestigious Moscow apartment building, known for its unique architecture and its role in Soviet history. It's a poignant look at the personal stories against the backdrop of a monumental structure.

Fact: The film was based on the real-life House on the Embankment, which was home to many Soviet elites, and its history reflects the tumultuous changes in Soviet society.

This movie is not available on Amazon Prime, but you can use the bonus:
Amazon Prime Video 30 Days Free
The Vertical (1966)
TRAILER

The Vertical (1966)

Description: While not directly about skyscrapers, this film captures the spirit of verticality through its focus on mountain climbing, paralleling the ambition of reaching new heights, both literally and metaphorically.

Fact: The film was shot in the Pamir Mountains, showcasing the breathtaking landscapes and the human struggle against nature.

This movie is not available on Amazon Prime, but you can use the bonus:
Amazon Prime Video 30 Days Free
The Irony of Fate (1975)
TRAILER

The Irony of Fate (1975)

Description: Although not about skyscrapers per se, this beloved Soviet comedy features a mix-up where the protagonist ends up in a similar apartment in a different city, highlighting the uniformity of Soviet housing blocks.

Fact: The film became a New Year's Eve tradition in Russia, and its humor and themes resonate with audiences even today.

This movie is not available on Amazon Prime, but you can use the bonus:
Amazon Prime Video 30 Days Free
The Seventh Bullet (1972)
TRAILER

The Seventh Bullet (1972)

Description: Set in a fictional town with a towering structure, this film explores themes of justice, revenge, and the impact of architecture on community life.

Fact: The film was one of the first Soviet Westerns, blending the genre's conventions with Soviet themes.

This movie is not available on Amazon Prime, but you can use the bonus:
Amazon Prime Video 30 Days Free
The Flight (1970)
TRAILER

The Flight (1970)

Description: This film, while not about skyscrapers, deals with the theme of escape and freedom, often symbolized by reaching for the sky or high places.

Fact: It was based on a novel by Mikhail Bulgakov, and its themes of freedom and escape are timeless.

This movie is not available on Amazon Prime, but you can use the bonus:
Amazon Prime Video 30 Days Free
The Garage (1979)
TRAILER

The Garage (1979)

Description: This comedy-drama uses the setting of a parking garage in a high-rise to explore themes of Soviet bureaucracy and the struggle for personal space in urban environments.

Fact: The film was directed by Eldar Ryazanov, known for his satirical take on Soviet life.

This movie is not available on Amazon Prime, but you can use the bonus:
Amazon Prime Video 30 Days Free
The Mysterious Wall (1967)
TRAILER

The Mysterious Wall (1967)

Description: This film, although not directly about skyscrapers, involves a mysterious wall that could be interpreted as a metaphor for the barriers in Soviet society, both physical and ideological.

Fact: It was one of the first Soviet films to explore themes of time travel and alternate realities.

This movie is not available on Amazon Prime, but you can use the bonus:
Amazon Prime Video 30 Days Free
Rate collection
cinepicker.com
Add a comment