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The 25 Best Russian Movies on Amazon Prime in 2023
If you’re looking for Russian movies, Amazon’s Prime Video platform is one of the best places to find them.
In this post, you’ll get 25 of the greatest Russian movies on Amazon Prime—available at the click of a button!
Just be warned: Russian cinema includes a lot of war dramas, and many of these films contain quite a bit of violence.
But you’ll also find some films that have nothing to do with war, so keep scrolling to find the right film for you!
Contents
- 1. “Война и мир” (“War and Peace”)
- 2. “Сталкер” (“Stalker”)
- 3. “Возвращение” (“The Return”)
- 4. “Солярис” (“Solaris”)
- 5. “Левиафан” (“Leviathan”)
- 6. “Зеркало” (“Mirror”)
- 7. “Утомлённые солнцем” (“Burnt by the Sun”)
- 8. “Брат” (“Brother”)
- 9. “Нелюбовь” (“Loveless”)
- 10. “Дорогие товарищи!” (“Dear Comrades!”)
- 11. “Дылда” (“Beanpole”)
- 12. “Время первых” (“Spacewalker”)
- 13. “14+”
- 14. “T-34”
- 15. “В тумане (“In the Fog”)
- 16. “Donbass”
- 17. “Балканский рубеж” (“The Balkan Line”)
- 18. “Калашников” (“AK-47 Kalashnikov”)
- 19. “Экипаж” (“The Crew”)
- 20. “Батальонъ” (“Battalion”)
- 21. “Спутник” (“Sputnik”)
- 22. “Дуэлянт” (“The Duelist”)
- 23. “Собибор” (“Sobibor”)
- 24. “Кома” (“Coma”)
- 25. “Легенда о Коловрате” (“Furious”)
- Additional Resources for Learning Russian
Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you can take anywhere. Click here to get a copy. (Download)
1. “Война и мир” (“War and Peace”)
Year Released: 1966-1967
Genre: Drama
Sergei Bondarchuk wrote, directed and stars in this epic cinematic adaptation of Leo Tolstoy’s monumental novel.
Released in four installments spanning over seven hours, this masterpiece explores the lives and loves of several aristocratic families against the backdrop of Russia’s tumultuous history during the Napoleonic Wars.
With stunning battle scenes and intricate character development, it won the 1969 Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film and remains a monumental achievement in the world of cinema, capturing the essence of Tolstoy’s literary brilliance.
2. “Сталкер” (“Stalker”)
Year Released: 1979
Genre: Drama/Fantasy
Andrei Tarkovsky’s “Stalker” is a philosophical journey into a mysterious and forbidden area known as the Zone, rumored to grant one’s innermost desires.
Three protagonists—a writer, a scientist and their guide—embark on this treacherous expedition, but the Zone tests their beliefs and desires in profound and unpredictable ways.
This enigmatic sci-fi film challenges viewers to ponder the nature of human existence, the pursuit of happiness and the consequences of one’s innermost desires.
3. “Возвращение” (“The Return”)
Year Released: 2003
Genre: Drama
Andrey Zvyagintsev’s “The Return” is a haunting and emotionally charged drama that was nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Foreign Language Film.
The film revolves around two brothers who embark on a fishing trip with their estranged father, setting the stage for a journey of self-discovery and reconciliation.
As tensions escalate and secrets surface, the film delves deep into the complexities of family dynamics and the search for meaning in an uncertain world. It’s a gripping exploration of paternal absence and the enduring impact it leaves on the human psyche.
4. “Солярис” (“Solaris”)
Year Released: 1972
Genre: Drama/Sci-Fi
Another film by Andrei Tarkovsky, “Solaris” is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of human emotion, memory and existentialism set in a space station orbiting a distant planet.
When the crew begins experiencing inexplicable phenomena and encounters with their own memories, a psychologist is sent to investigate.
As he confronts his own past and the enigma of Solaris, the film delves into the depths of consciousness, love and the boundaries of human understanding.
5. “Левиафан” (“Leviathan”)
Year Released: 2014
Genre: Crime Drama
Directed by Andrey Zvyagintsev, “Leviathan” is a profoundly impactful exploration of power, corruption and the indomitable human spirit.
Set in a remote Russian coastal town, it follows the tumultuous life of a man fighting against a corrupt local mayor. As the battle escalates, the film delves into the moral and existential struggles of its characters as well as the faults of contemporary Russian society.
With stunning cinematography and masterful storytelling, “Leviathan” is an unflinching and thought-provoking examination of the individual’s quest for justice within an oppressive system.
6. “Зеркало” (“Mirror”)
Year Released: 1975
Genre: Drama
This is yet another Tarkovsky film, demonstrating his huge impact on Russian film. “Mirror” is a cinematic poem that blurs the lines between dreams, memories and reality.
This film weaves together the life of its protagonist with historical events and personal reflections, creating a non-linear narrative that captures the essence of human existence and the complexities of identity.
“Mirror” is a deeply introspective and meditative journey into the human soul and has become a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate and mystify audiences.
7. “Утомлённые солнцем” (“Burnt by the Sun”)
Year Released: 1994
Genre: War Drama
“Burnt by the Sun” is a poignant and visually stunning portrayal of life in Stalinist Russia set during a seemingly idyllic summer at a dacha (a Russian cottage).
The film follows the life of a Red Army officer, whose world unravels when a mysterious visitor from the past arrives. The captivating story exposes the harsh realities of the era, exploring themes of love, betrayal and the devastating consequences of political turmoil.
It’s a masterful work that offers a profound glimpse into a turbulent period of Russian history.
8. “Брат” (“Brother”)
Year Released: 1997
Genre: Action/Crime Drama
This is a gritty and unflinching film from director Aleksei Balabanov that provides an unfiltered look at post-Soviet Russia.
The film centers on the journey of Danila, a former soldier who becomes a vigilante in the criminal underworld of St. Petersburg. Balabanov’s raw and intense storytelling reveals the moral complexities and challenges faced by individuals in a society undergoing profound transformation.
“Brother” explores themes of loyalty, revenge and the search for meaning, making it a compelling and thought-provoking examination of Russian society during a time of transition.
9. “Нелюбовь” (“Loveless”)
Year Released: 2017
Genre: Drama
Another film by Andrey Zvyagintsev, “Loveless” dissects the disintegration of a marriage against the backdrop of a child’s disappearance.
As the search for their missing son intensifies, the film unearths the deep-seated flaws and emotional voids within the characters and modern Russian society.
With its stark portrayal of human disconnect, “Loveless” provides an unflinching examination of love, loss and the haunting consequences of indifference. The film also examines the concept of generational trauma and a cycle of mistreatment leading to devastating consequences.
10. “Дорогие товарищи!” (“Dear Comrades!”)
Year Released: 2020
Genre: Drama/History
Andrei Konchalovsky’s “Dear Comrades” revisits the Novocherkassk massacre of 1962 through the eyes of a loyal Communist Party member.
With a keen eye for detail and a compelling narrative, the film offers a visceral portrayal of the political unrest and government repression that marked Soviet history.
“Dear Comrades” is a gripping and historically significant drama that exposes the brutality and disillusionment of a turbulent era. It serves as a stark reminder of the complex and often painful intersection of ideology and human experience.
11. “Дылда” (“Beanpole”)
Year Released: 2019
Genre: Drama/War
“Beanpole” is a visually striking and emotionally intense drama set in post-World War II Leningrad.
The film navigates the lives of two female veterans who share a deep bond forged by the horrors of war and the struggle to rebuild their lives. It follows them as they grapple with trauma, grief and their own complex relationship.
“Beanpole” explores the enduring impact of conflict on the human psyche. It provides a stark and poignant reflection on the resiliency of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
12. “Время первых” (“Spacewalker”)
Year Released: 2017
Genre: Historical Drama
“Spacewalker” is a thrilling and historically significant film that captures the tension and heroism of the early days of the Soviet space program.
Directed by Dmitriy Kiselev, it tells the true story of cosmonaut Alexey Leonov, the first person to conduct a spacewalk. Against the backdrop of the Cold War space race, the film immerses viewers in the challenges, risks and triumphs of space exploration.
With its breathtaking visuals and gripping narrative, “Spacewalker” is a compelling tribute to the pioneers who ventured into the unknown.
13. “14+”
Year Released: 2015
Genre: Drama/Romance
Directed by Andrei Zaitsev, “14 +” is a heartfelt coming-of-age drama that tells the story of a fourteen-year-old boy and his first experience of infatuation with a girl.
The film explores the challenges and dreams of its young protagonists, touching on themes of friendship, self-discovery and the universal quest for identity.
With its relatable characters and a poignant portrayal of adolescence, “14 +” resonates with audiences as it captures the hopes and uncertainties of youth in contemporary Russia.
14. “T-34”
Year Released: 2019
Genre: Action/War
Directed by Aleksey Sidorov, “T-34” is a gripping war film set during World War II.
The story revolves around a group of Soviet prisoners of war who make a daring escape from a German prison camp using a T-34 tank. What follows is a high-octane and relentless pursuit as they embark on a journey to rejoin their comrades.
Filled with thrilling tank battles, camaraderie and heroism, the film pays homage to the indomitable spirit of those who fought against the backdrop of one of history’s most brutal conflicts.
15. “В тумане (“In the Fog”)
Year Released: 2012
Genre: War Drama/History
This is another war drama set during World War II. Directed by Sergei Loznitsa, the film follows a man accused of collaboration with the Germans as he navigates the treacherous landscape of occupied Soviet territory.
As moral dilemmas unfold, “In the Fog” delves into the complexities of loyalty, betrayal and the blurred lines of right and wrong during a time of extreme turmoil.
With its haunting visuals and intricate storytelling, it offers a profound exploration of the human condition.
16. “Donbass”
Year Released: 2018
Genre: Satirical Black Comedy
With all these intense war dramas, it’s time for a film that offers some humor, albeit dark and satirical. Set against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in Eastern Ukraine, this film offers an unflinching portrayal of the chaos and absurdity of war.
Through a series of vignettes and interconnected stories, “Donbass” explores the impact of conflict on both civilians and combatants, shedding light on the disintegration of societal norms and the manipulation of truth.
The film serves as a stark commentary on the devastating consequences of war and the erosion of humanity in its wake.
17. “Балканский рубеж” (“The Balkan Line”)
Year Released: 2019
Genre: Action/War
A high-stakes action thriller directed by Andrey Volgin, “The Balkan Line” (also known as “Covert Games”) is set against the backdrop of the Kosovo War in the late 1990s.
The film follows a Russian special forces operative who becomes embroiled in the treacherous Balkan conflict. They must recapture an airport in Kosovo in order to protect Serbian people from Albanian UCK terrorists.
Filled with intense battle sequences, political intrigue and personal heroism, it’s a gripping tale of courage and sacrifice in the midst of a geopolitical crisis.
18. “Калашников” (“AK-47 Kalashnikov”)
Year Released: 2020
Genre: Biographical War Drama
Directed by Konstantin Buslov, “AK-47 Kalashnikov” is based on the real life story of Mikhail Kalashnikov, the legendary inventor of the AK-47 assault rifle.
The movie delves into Kalashnikov’s journey from a simple Siberian farm boy to a renowned weapon designer. It offers insight into the man behind the weapon and the impact of his creation on world history.
As it explores the moral and ethical dimensions of innovation in the context of war, it sheds light on the complex legacy of one of the most impactful firearms in the world.
19. “Экипаж” (“The Crew”)
Year Released: 2016
Genre: Action/Adventure/Drama
Directed by Nikolay Lebedev, “The Crew” (also known as “Flight Crew”) is an adrenaline-pumping aviation thriller that follows a courageous airline crew facing a life-threatening emergency in mid-flight.
As they struggle to avert disaster, the film offers a riveting portrayal of teamwork, resourcefulness and unwavering determination at 30,000 feet.
With breathtaking aerial sequences and a suspenseful narrative, “The Crew” takes viewers on a high-flying journey filled with heart-pounding suspense.
21. “Спутник” (“Sputnik”)
Year Released: 2020
Genre: Sci-Fi/ Horror
“Sputnik,” directed by Egor Abramenko, is a gripping sci- fi thriller that explores the consequences of an extraterrestrial encounter.
The film follows a psychologist tasked with unraveling the mystery of a cosmonaut’s strange behavior after returning from space with a deadly alien creature.
With its atmospheric tension and cerebral narrative, “Sputnik” delves into the complexities of human nature, survival and the ethical choices made in the face of the unknown.
22. “Дуэлянт” (“The Duelist”)
Year Released: 2016
Genre: Period Drama/ Thriller
Aleksey Mizgirev’s “The Duelist” is a visually stunning period drama set in 19th-century St. Petersburg.
It’s a film that makes you root for the bad guy, a handsome retired army officer who duels people for money. However, his cold-heartedness is put to the test when he meets a prince and his sister, who bring out emotions in him he never knew he possessed.
“The Duelist” offers a thrilling and stylish exploration of a bygone era, filled with exquisite cinematography and intricate character dynamics.
23. “Собибор” (“Sobibor”)
Year Released: 2018
Genre: War Drama
Directed by Konstantin Khabenskiy, “Sobibor” is a harrowing Holocaust drama that chronicles the courageous uprising at the Sobibor extermination camp in Poland.
The film delves into the horrifying atrocities of this time in history and the indomitable spirit of those who fought back against unimaginable odds.
With its powerful storytelling and historical significance, “Sobibor” serves as a testament to the resilience and bravery of those who dared to defy the darkest chapter in human history.
24. “Кома” (“Coma”)
Year Released: 2020
Genre: Sci-Fi/Action
“Coma” is a visually stunning and intellectually stimulating sci-fi thriller that will make you ponder the nature of existence itself.
The film follows the journey of a young architect who becomes trapped in a surreal and mysterious world after a near-fatal accident. As he navigates this enigmatic realm, he must confront his deepest fears, desires and the inexplicable phenomena that govern it.
“Coma” is a thought-provoking exploration of the human psyche, the boundaries of reality and the intricate interplay between consciousness and subconsciousness.
25. “Легенда о Коловрате” (“Furious”)
Year Released: 2017
Genre: Action/Drama/History/Fantasy
“Furious” (also known as “Legend of Kolovrat”) is an adrenaline-pumping action film that delivers heart-pounding excitement from start to finish.
Set against the backdrop of historical events, the movie follows a legendary Russian war hero who embarks on a relentless mission of vengeance against a powerful criminal syndicate.
With intense combat sequences and a gripping narrative, “Furious” is a high-octane ride filled with suspense and explosive action. It showcases the enduring spirit of a hero and the unyielding pursuit of justice in the face of overwhelming odds.
Additional Resources for Learning Russian
If you’re learning Russian, watching Russian movies is a great way to immerse yourself in the language. In conjunction with other resources, they can be an extremely helpful combination to boost your skills.
We recommend checking out the following resources in addition to these Russian movies:
- Russian textbooks — Textbooks are designed by an expert in language learning and can help you learn specific topics and strategies to get you to speak, read and write in Russian with confidence.
- Language exchange programs — If you want to talk with a native Russian speaker and form a mutually beneficial partnership, check out a language exchange program. This will connect you with another person who will teach you their native language while you teach them yours.
- Russian learning apps — Put your screen time to good use by downloading Russian learning apps where you can play games and take tests to improve your Russian vocabulary, grammar and spelling.
- FluentU — If you’re still in the mood for Russian clips after watching these films, check out FluentU. With a variety of video clips from authentic Russian media, you can immerse yourself in the language and build your vocabulary with the program’s adaptive learning tools.
- Russian flashcards — Whether you make your own, purchase them in print or use virtual ones, flashcards help you test your knowledge and reinforce your learning of Russian words and phrases.
- Russian workbooks — After you’ve read the textbooks and practiced with flashcards, put yourself to the test! Find workbooks that offer activities, quizzes and tests to see if you fully comprehend what you’ve been studying.
As you can see, Amazon’s Prime Video platform is a great place to find a variety of Russian films.
With the option to stream, rent or purchase the films, you can choose a few that fit your interests to watch at home or on the go!
Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you can take anywhere. Click here to get a copy. (Download)
