For nostalgia
The Irony of Fate (1975). Having cemented itself as a turn-of-the-year tradition, this movie by Soviet filmmaker Eldar Ryazanov tells the story of a life-changing night: a young man finds himself in another’s apartment and meets the love of his life as the clock inches closer to midnight. The film is most adored for its feel-good atmosphere, blend of comedy and tragedy, and, above all, the bittersweet soundtrack by Mikael Tariverdiev, many of whose songs are set to famous Russian poems by the likes of Marina Tsvetaeva, Boris Pasternak, and other celebrated authors.
For folk wisdom
Last Year's Snow Was Falling (1983). Also a Soviet classic, this 20-minute animation may come off as a simple story of how a man ventures to find a festive tree, but it, in fact, has many layers to it. First, it’s surreal, plasticine, and slow-motion. Second, it boasts a good deal of catchphrases and diverse references – be that the evil Baba Yaga or a magic tablecloth. And third, the message it conveys is transparent and timeless – and all about appreciating what we have.
For a New Year’s miracle
Yolki (2010) and Yolki 2 (2011). The Yolki franchise is an epic mosaic of separate yet interlocking stories, though with one storyline in the spotlight, which are set in different parts of Russia on New Year’s Eve. Some characters argue which sport, snowboarding or skiing, is better; some celebrate the holiday in their workplace, and some fail to make a wish at midnight. Inspired by the six handshakes rule, the movies are charged with an anything-can-happen spirit, whether that is helping out an orphanage girl, as in the first movie, or two long-lost lovers – in the second one..
For a fairytale-like atmosphere
The Silver Skates (2020). The movie is first and foremost an adventurous cross-class love story set against the backdrop of 19th-century St. Petersburg. But it has much more to offer: from drawing attention to the issues of social inequality and women’s education, amongst many others, to visually-stunning, beautiful cinematography and atmospheric, true winter-wonderland scenes. Remarkably, the movie is shot all across St. Petersburg, including the Moyka River, the inner courtyard of St. Michael's Castle, and many other local landmarks.
For life reflection
And Here's What's Happening to Me (2012). Alternative to the holiday classics, the film delves into darker, heavier topics, which bring the harsh reality back. The plot follows two brothers who learn their father has cancer and wind up spending New Year’s Eve together: they encounter other “life strugglers,” have profound conversations about life and loneliness, and simply walk amidst the festive craziness of Moscow. It is dialogue-heavy and slower-paced and is deeply inspired by a Yevgeny Yevtushenko poem (hence the film’s title) that featured in The Irony of Fate as well.
Experience New Year’s the Russian way with our handy guides on what to do, what to eat, and what to listen to on New Year’s Eve. Discover even more culture-rich stories under our New Year tag.
