- The Bolshoi (2016)
- The Cranes Are Flying (1957)
- The Pokrovsky Gate (1982)
- The Circus (1936)
- The Irony of Fate (1975)
- The Star and the Death of Joaquin Murieta (1976)
- The House That Swift Built (1982)
- The Twentieth Century Approaches (1986)
- The Master and Margarita (1994)
- The Return of the Musketeers, or The Treasures of Cardinal Mazarin (2009)
Soviet cinema has always had a unique way of capturing the essence of art and culture, and theater, as one of the most expressive forms of art, was often a central theme in many Soviet films. This collection of 10 Soviet films about theater not only provides a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the USSR but also offers an insight into the lives of actors, directors, and the backstage drama that unfolds in the world of theater. From comedies to dramas, these films explore the passion, dedication, and sometimes the absurdity of the theatrical world, making them a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of cinema and theater.
The Bolshoi (2016)
Description: This documentary by Nick Read and Mark Franchetti delves into the world of the Bolshoi Ballet, showcasing the drama, competition, and passion behind one of the world's most prestigious theaters.
Fact: The film provides an insider's look at the Bolshoi, capturing the intense preparation and the personal stories of the dancers, making it a unique addition to this collection.
Watch Now 
The Cranes Are Flying (1957)
Description: While not exclusively about theater, this poignant war drama by Mikhail Kalatozov includes scenes where the protagonist, Veronika, works in a theater, reflecting the impact of war on personal lives and the role of art in times of crisis.
Fact: The film won the Palme d'Or at the 1958 Cannes Film Festival, making it one of the most acclaimed Soviet films internationally.
30 Days Free 
The Pokrovsky Gate (1982)
Description: This satirical comedy by Mikhail Kozakov includes a subplot about a theater troupe, reflecting on the lives of Soviet citizens through the lens of humor and nostalgia for the pre-war era.
Fact: The film was initially banned due to its satirical take on Soviet life but later became a cult classic.
30 Days Free 
The Circus (1936)
Description: This classic Soviet comedy by Grigori Alexandrov showcases the life of an American circus performer who finds herself in the USSR, where she experiences the warmth of Soviet people and the magic of the theater. The film is a celebration of the circus as a form of theater, highlighting the joy and unity it brings.
Fact: The film was one of the first Soviet films to be widely distributed in the West, and it was a major success, even earning an Oscar nomination for Best Original Screenplay.
30 Days Free The Irony of Fate (1975)
Description: This beloved New Year's Eve comedy by Eldar Ryazanov features a scene where the main character, Zhenya, ends up in a theater performance due to a mix-up. It's a humorous take on the unpredictability of life and the role of chance in our destinies.
Fact: The film has become a tradition in Russia, where it is watched every New Year's Eve, making it one of the most-watched films in the country.
30 Days Free The Star and the Death of Joaquin Murieta (1976)
Description: Directed by Vladimir Motyl, this film is a poetic exploration of the life of a legendary bandit, with scenes set in a theater where the story is being performed, blending reality with theatricality.
Fact: The film was inspired by the life of the real-life bandit Joaquin Murieta, and its poetic style and use of theater as a narrative device make it unique.
30 Days Free The House That Swift Built (1982)
Description: This film by Mark Zakharov is a satirical take on bureaucracy and art, with scenes set in a theater where the absurdity of the system is played out.
Fact: The film was based on the satirical works of Jonathan Swift, adapting his themes to critique Soviet bureaucracy.
30 Days Free The Twentieth Century Approaches (1986)
Description: This film by Alexander Sokurov explores the life of a theater director in the early 20th century, reflecting on the changes in Russian society and the role of art during turbulent times.
Fact: The film was part of a trilogy, with each part focusing on different aspects of Russian history and culture.
30 Days Free The Master and Margarita (1994)
Description: While not directly about theater, this adaptation of Bulgakov's novel includes scenes where the devil's entourage stages a theatrical performance, blending reality with fantasy.
Fact: The film was one of the first major adaptations of Bulgakov's novel, which was banned in the USSR for many years due to its satirical content.
30 Days Free The Return of the Musketeers, or The Treasures of Cardinal Mazarin (2009)
Description: This comedic take on Dumas' characters by Georgiy Yungvald-Khilkevich includes scenes where the musketeers engage in theatrical performances, adding a layer of humor and meta-narrative to the adventure.
Fact: The film was part of a series of adaptations of Dumas' works, known for their light-hearted approach and the use of theater as a plot device.
30 Days Free 
