Soviet War films produce some of the most gritty and realistic films that shed a harsh light on the horrors and sacrifices made by those on the battlefields. Many of the works are retellings of conflicts on the Eastern Front during World War II, the intense warfare between German and Russian forces that saw untold casualties and deaths. The films tell a story of individual and collective struggles against a war machine that blends in larger cultural narratives and deeper themes about politics and the true cost of war.
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Some of the best war films of all time, such as Ballad of a Soldier and Come and See, show everything about what it means to be a Soviet War film, with harrowing, accurate recounts and intimate stories that reveal the personal impact and graphic devastation of combat. Films that present a more Soviet viewpoint offer a deeper look into the struggles and gruesome realities that have often been overlooked in Western cinema. These are war films from the past that still hold up today and capture the raw action and psychological impact that leaves a long-lasting impression on the audience.
10 Panfilov’s 28 Men (2016)
Directed By Kim Druzhinin And Andrey Shalopa
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Panfilov’s 28 Men is a War film directed by the stellar duo Kim of Druzhinin and Andrey Shalopa, recounting the infamous conflict that saw 28 Red Army recruits defend Moscow. The battle took place near the end of World War II and was seen as a significant point in the war effort, with the soldier’s bravery and sacrifice in the face of an incredible adversary inspiring the rest of the soldiers. The story focuses on this one point in the war that offers an intimate and intense look at a small group of heroes who banded together for the greater good.
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Druzhinin and Shalopa’s direction is subtle yet mature as they expertly weave the moments of heartfelt fear and nerves with gruesome battle scenes that have been fantastically shot and choreographed. Though the film was financially supported by Russian and Kazakhstan governments, which potentially calls into question the objectives of the movie, it can’t be argued that it isn’t an epic retelling of an excellent battle. The film showcases the unity and bravery of the soldiers in a realistic and thought-provoking way that makes for an exciting watch.
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9 Hot Snow (1972)
Directed By Gabriel Yegiazarov
An adaptation of Yuri Bondarev’s 1969 novel, Hot Snow, is a gritty drama about a battalion of Soviet tanks who have bedded down to defend a critical, strategic position within the Battle of Stalingrad. The film follows the narrative through the General’s point of view as he and his soldiers face many difficult situations and strikes during Operation Barbarossa – the Nazi’s plan to destabilize, invade and conquer the Soviet Union. It provides an unflinching and seemingly unfiltered account of events as the soldiers face untold hardship in the face of incredible odds.
The scenes and action feel all too realistic, with incredible choreography and sound design that make the viewer feel like they are riding shoulder to shoulder with the Soviet army.
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Bondarev drew on his own experiences as a battery commander in the War when writing his book, and the film really does reflect this authentic first-hand account. The scenes and action feel all too realistic, with incredible choreography and sound design that make the viewer feel like they are riding shoulder to shoulder with the Soviet army. Though the film focuses on one segment of the War and does it very well, it does lack a slightly more all-encompassing overview that some of the other films manage to pull off with more gravitas.
8 Stalingrad (1993)
Directed By Joseph Vilsmaier
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Joseph Vilsmaier’s Stalingrad is an anti-war film that sees the plot follow a platoon of German infantrymen who are unexpectedly transferred straight to the frontline of the Battle of Stalingrad, one of the most pivotal battles in all of WW II. After a series of bombings and firefights, the platoon is half killed or injured and is taken under new leadership, that of a sadistic and twisted Captain. The soldiers now face another dilemma: either stay and most likely die in the line of duty, or follow a plan to desert their post but end up surrendering to the Soviets.
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Stalingrad is an unsanitized and gruesome look at life on the frontlines for a squad unprepared to deal with the horrors that await them. Vilsmaier’s direction is key in exposing the psychological toll and haunting realization of the soldiers, as the action and battle sequences are grueling and destructive. Though the film can drag in certain spots, there is more than enough battleground action and portraits of deeply human characters in inhuman circumstances that make it a must-watch for any Soviet war film buff.
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7 Alexander Nevsky (1938)
Directed By Sergei Eisenstein And Dmitri Vasilyev
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Alexander Nevsky DramaHistoryWar
Alexander Nevsky is a 1938 historical drama directed by Sergei Eisenstein that portrays the legendary Russian hero Prince Alexander Nevsky as he defends his homeland from foreign invaders. Set against the backdrop of 13th-century Rus’, the film is notable for its epic battle scenes and Prokofiev’s powerful musical score, emphasizing themes of nationalism and valor.
Director Sergei Eisenstein , Dmitriy Vasilev Release Date November 24, 1938 Studio(s) Mosfilm Writers Nikolai Cherkasov , Nikolai Okhlopkov , Andrei Abrikosov , Valentyna Ivashova , Lev Fenin , Sergei Blinnikov , Nikolai Arsky , Varvara Massalitinova Cast Alexander Nevsky , Vasili Buslai , Gavrilo Oleksich , Olga Danilovna – a Maid of Novgorod , The Archbishop , Tverdilo – Traitorous Mayor of Pskov , Domash Tverdislavich – a Novgorod Boyar , Amelfa Timoferevna – Buslai’s Mother Runtime 109 Minutes Main Genre Drama Expand
In the Soviet historical drama Alexander Nevsky, directed by Sergei Eisenstein And Dmitri Vasilyev, the story – set in the 13th Century – depicts the invasion of Novgorod by the Holy Roman Empire’s Teutonic Knights. The invasion is thwarted, and the Knights are soundly defeated by the Russian hero, Prince Alexander, also known more generally as the titular Alexander Nevsky. Though it strays far away from the more popular, modern warfare depictions of World War II, the battles and sequences of a War in the Middle Ages are just as captivating.
The film’s final action sequence, the ‘Battle of the Ice’, is just over 30 minutes long.
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Though released in 1938, some 80 years ago, the film’s battle sequences and choreography actually feel fairly current and fresh, partly because they have inspired many more modern War films. The film seems to tread the line between authentic retelling and Soviet ‘propaganda,’ sometimes unsuccessfully, with the narrative becoming an allegory for their more recent conflicts in WW I. Overall, the film’s technical brilliance combined with the iconic battles – particularly ‘The Battle on the Ice’ – and majestic score from Sergei Prokofiev makes it a worthwhile watch.
6 They Fought For Their Country (1975)
Directed By Sergei Bondarchuk
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They Fought for Their Country is a film based on the work of author Mikhail Sholokhov, directed by Sergei Bondarchuk, who is famous for sweeping period and war dramas such as War and Peace and Waterloo. The film, like many other Soviet war films, focuses on the story of a small battalion of Russian soldiers who are attempting to hold off the German advancement into Stalingrad. The men are tired, vulnerable yet optimistic, and the heartfelt and sincere portrayal creates many poignant moments throughout the film.
They Fought for Their Country
was selected as the Soviet entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at that year’s Academy Awards but wasn’t chosen as a nominee.
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Bondarchuk’s direction is nothing short of masterful, as he made his name with similar-style films, and shows a skillful feel and technical brilliance for the genre. The film introduces the characters in nuanced ways, and the pacing of the story, combined with the solid character development and fantastic performances, make for an engaging watch. Though not as action-heavy as some of the other films, its focus on story and the human cost of war make it a stand-out in the genre.
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5 Enemy At The Gates (2001)
Directed By Jean-Jacques Annaud
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Enemy At The Gates RWarDramaHistoryRomance
Enemy at the Gates is a war film directed by Jean-Jacques Annaud, set during the Battle of Stalingrad in World War II. It follows a tense confrontation between a Russian sniper, Vassili Zaitsev, and a German sniper, Major König, as they engage in a strategic game of cat-and-mouse.
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*Availability in US Director Jean-Jacques Annaud Release Date March 16, 2001 Writers Jean-Jacques Annaud , Alain Godard Cast Jude Law , Joseph Fiennes , Rachel Weisz , Ed Harris , Bob Hoskins , Ron Perlman , Eva Mattes , Gabriel Thomson , Matthias Habich , Alexander Schwan , Lenn Kudrjawizki , Gennadi Vengerov , Dan van Husen , Ivan Shvedoff , Sophie Rois , Mario Bandi , Hans Martin Stier , Clemens Schick , Hendrik Arnst , Claudius Freyer , Dietmar Nieder Runtime 131 Minutes Main Genre War Expand
Though a relatively rare Western production from a Soviet perspective, Enemy at the Gates is an adaptation of William Craig’s 1973 novel of the same name. The premise for the film follows two snipers on opposite sides of the war who are caught in the deadly position of facing off against each other, with the Soviet sniper, Vasily Zaitsev played by Jude Law, and the German sharpshooter Major König, being portrayed by Ed Harris. Zaitsev has become infamous for picking off German soldiers ruthlessly, and König is tasked with stopping him and restoring Hitler’s supremacy.
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The 10 Best Soviet War Movies On This List: |
IMDb Rating: |
|---|---|
|
Panfilov’s 28 Men (2016) |
6.7/10 |
|
The Hot Snow (1972) |
6.9/10 |
|
Stalingrad (1993) |
7.5/10 |
|
Alexander Nevsky (1938) |
7.5/10 |
|
They Fought for Their Country (1975) |
7.7/10 |
|
Enemy at the Gates (2001) |
7.5/10 |
|
Prisoner of the Mountains (1996) |
7.5/10 |
|
Come And See (1985) |
8.3/10 |
|
The Cranes Are Flying (1957) |
8.3/10 |
|
Ballad Of A Soldier (1959) |
8.2/10 |
Directed by the talented Jean-Jacques Annaud (Seven Years in Tibet), the focus on two snipers who must hold and wait for hours helps slow the film’s pace down to a contemplative and methodical journey. It is a film full of intrigue and suspense that leaves viewers on the edge of their seats, with even the quietest moments being punctuated with the potential for extreme violence. Though the film also included a romantic subplot that seemed unnecessary, the unique look at one of the most interesting aspects of war, combined with exquisite performances, makes it an underrated gem.
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4 Prisoner Of The Mountains (1996)
Directed By Sergei Bodrov
In a Soviet war film that focuses on a more modern Russian conflict, Prisoner of the Mountains, directed by Sergei Bodrov, follows two Russian soldiers, Vanya and Sacha, as they are on routine patrol in the Caucasus Mountains. The pair is captured by Chechen rebels and are held prisoner in their local village, with the tribal leader Abdul-Murat – whose son is currently in the custody of Russian forces, plots an exchange for the two soldiers. The film is told through the unique perspective of the two captives; it blossoms into an emotional and heartbreaking story.
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Prisoner of the Mountains is based on Leo Tolstoy’s 1872 short story The Prisoner in the Caucasus and produces one of the most intimate and captivating portrayals of War ever made. The performances from the two captive soldiers, as well as the supporting cast, are all incredibly authentic, and the genuine bond and connection they feel even in an incredibly volatile situation is beautiful to watch. Bodrov’s direction is wonderfully subtle, letting the portrayals, story, and stunning visuals elevate the film to its stellar reputation.
3 Come And See (1985)
Directed By Elem Klimov
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Come And See NRDramaWar
Come and See is a 1985 Soviet war drama directed by Elem Klimov. The film follows a young Belarusian boy named Flyora as he witnesses and experiences the horrors of World War II. Through his eyes, viewers are exposed to the brutal realities of war and its devastating impact on humanity. Renowned for its stark portrayal of violence and suffering, the film is considered a powerful anti-war statement.
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*Availability in US Director Elem Klimov Release Date October 17, 1985 Studio(s) Belarusfilm , Mosfilm Writers Elem Klimov , Ales Adamovich Cast Aleksei Kravchenko , Olga Mironova , Liubomiras Laucevicius , Vladas Bagdonas , Jüri Lumiste Runtime 142 Minutes Main Genre Drama Expand
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Set in the gritty backdrop of Wartime Belarus, Come and See – often hailed as one of the best anti-war films of all time – sees the story follow young teenage boy Flyora as he encounters the brutal Nazi invasion of the area. He is quickly forced into joining a group of resistance fighters who are aiming to form a defense against the German squadrons, but are impossibly outmatched and easily captured. Flyora is then made to watch and take part in some of the most horrific and haunting atrocities that occurred during the entire war.
Director Elem Klimov co-wrote the screenplay for the film with Ales Adamovich, a man who fought with the Belarusian partisans when he was a teenager.
Directed by Elem Klimov, the brutality and heinous actions shown, including setting fire to a barn church full of villagers as they scream and cry out, are absolutely harrowing to watch. The viewer is transported alongside Flyora as he is forced to ‘come and see‘ the barbaric war crimes, with visuals and pacing that add a layer of polish that makes the events on screen that much more visceral. The film has a mix of hyperrealistic scenes with mind-bending surrealism that plays the perfect balance, combined with stunning performances and artful direction, making it a must-see for any Soviet film fan.
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2 The Cranes Are Flying (1957)
Directed By Mikhail Kalatozov
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The Cranes are Flying 14DramaRomanceWar
Before World War II, Veronika and Boris vow to reunite before he goes to war, but Boris leaves without seeing her. Veronika, after her home is destroyed, moves in with his family and encounters his cousin’s advances.
Director Mikhail Kalatozov Release Date October 12, 1957 Writers Viktor Rozov Cast Tatyana Samoylova , Aleksey Batalov , Vasili Merkuryev , Aleksandr Shvorin , Svetlana Kharitonova , Konstantin Kadochnikov , Valentin Zubkov , Antonina Bogdanova , Boris Kokovkin , Ekaterina Kupriyanova Runtime 97 Minutes Main Genre War Expand
In a rare war film with a romantic love story, The Cranes are Flying, directed by Mikhail Kalatozov, explores past the battlefield and into a soldier and his partner’s personal lives. The story follows Russian couple Veronika (Tatiana Samoilova) and Boris (Aleksey Batalov), who are together when they get news the Germans have invaded, and subsequently, Boris volunteers for the Army. The film then follows their separate paths as they both end up in difficult and life-altering situations, with Boris in dangerous missions missing home and Veronika in an abusive, loveless marriage.
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Receiving critical and commercial acclaim on its release, The Cranes are Flying was the winner of the Palme d’Or at the 1958 Cannes Film Festival – the only Soviet film to ever win – showing the impact it had on the cinematic landscape in Russia. The storytelling and narrative, as well as the unique, inventive visuals were groundbreaking for Soviet films at the time and went on to inspire a new generation. The performances and chemistry of the two leads, even in sharing limited screen time, are exceptional, and the score and cinematography bring the heartbreaking tale to life.
1 Ballad Of A Soldier (1959)
Directed By Grigory Chukhray
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Ballad of a Soldier is another war film that focuses on a romantic plot while using World War II as the atmospheric backdrop that shapes the story. Directed by Grigory Chukhray, the film recounts various intimate relationships of love and devotion, including young lovers, a married couple, and a mother and her child, all within the background of the turmoil and horrors of war. The film focuses on many universal themes and topics that elevate it to one of the most realistic and engaging Soviet films ever released.
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The film was a huge critical success, winning and being nominated for both BAFTAs and Academy Awards, with the personal stories of how war affects civilian’s everyday lives resonating with audiences. The film almost has poetry to its visuals and performances, with the pacing, dialogue, and sequences all flowing seamlessly and effortlessly into each other. Though it focuses on the human side of war, away from the conflict, in some ways, this can be more impactful, and it’s a beautiful piece of war cinema deserving of all its acclaim.
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