Russian cinema has a rich history and has produced many remarkable films over the years. As we look back from 2025, let’s explore the 10 most-watched Russian movies of all time. These films have captured the hearts of audiences both in Russia and around the world, showcasing the country’s unique storytelling and cinematic style.
1. Cheburashka (2023)
At the top of our list is the heartwarming family film “Cheburashka.” This movie tells the story of a cute, furry creature who arrives in a small coastal town and befriends a lonely old man. Together, they embark on a series of adventures that change their lives and the lives of those around them.
“Cheburashka” became an instant hit when it was released, breaking box office records in Russia. Its charming characters, beautiful visuals, and touching story appealed to viewers of all ages. The film’s success led to a renewed interest in the classic Cheburashka character, which has been popular in Russia since the 1960s.
2. Stalingrad (2013)
“Stalingrad” is a powerful war drama that takes place during the Battle of Stalingrad in World War II. The film follows a group of Russian soldiers as they defend a strategic building against German forces. It’s a story of bravery, sacrifice, and the human spirit in the face of overwhelming odds.
Directed by Fedor Bondarchuk, “Stalingrad” was praised for its stunning visuals and intense battle scenes. It was the first Russian film to be shot entirely in IMAX 3D, which helped create an immersive experience for viewers. The movie’s emotional depth and historical significance made it a huge success both in Russia and internationally.
3. Going Vertical (2017)
“Going Vertical” tells the true story of the Soviet Union’s basketball team at the 1972 Munich Olympics. The film focuses on the team’s journey to the gold medal game against the United States, which ended in one of the most controversial finishes in Olympic history.
This sports drama captured the imagination of Russian audiences with its inspiring story of underdogs triumphing against the odds. It skillfully blends historical events with personal drama, showing the pressures faced by the players and coaches. The movie’s success sparked renewed interest in basketball in Russia and reminded viewers of a proud moment in the country’s sporting history.
4. Irony of Fate: The Sequel (2007)
This romantic comedy is a sequel to the beloved 1976 Soviet film “The Irony of Fate, or Enjoy Your Bath!” The original movie is a New Year’s Eve tradition in Russia, and the sequel managed to capture some of that magic for a new generation.
“Irony of Fate: The Sequel” continues the story of the original characters while introducing their children, who find themselves in similarly comical and romantic situations. The film’s blend of nostalgia and modern storytelling resonated with audiences, making it one of the most-watched Russian movies of all time.
5. Serf (2019)
“Serf” is a comedy that tells the story of a rich young man who is tricked by his family into believing he’s a serf in 19th century Russia. As he adjusts to his new “life,” he learns valuable lessons about hard work, friendship, and love.
The film’s clever premise and humorous take on Russian history made it a massive hit with audiences. It combines slapstick comedy with social commentary, poking fun at both modern and historical Russian society. “Serf” became one of the highest-grossing Russian films ever, thanks to its broad appeal and word-of-mouth popularity.
6. Night Watch (2004)
“Night Watch” is a fantasy thriller that introduced many international viewers to modern Russian cinema. The film is set in a world where the forces of light and darkness maintain an uneasy truce, with “Others” – people with supernatural abilities – policing each side.
Directed by Timur Bekmambetov, “Night Watch” impressed audiences with its unique visual style and complex mythology. It spawned a sequel, “Day Watch,” and there were plans for an English-language adaptation. The movie’s success paved the way for more ambitious Russian blockbusters in the following years.
7. T-34 (2020)
“T-34” is an action-packed war film that follows a group of Russian soldiers who escape from a German concentration camp in a legendary T-34 tank. The movie combines thrilling tank battles with a story of courage and resilience.
This film was praised for its impressive special effects and intense action sequences. It struck a chord with Russian audiences by celebrating the country’s military history and showcasing the iconic T-34 tank, which played a crucial role in World War II. The movie’s mix of historical drama and high-octane action made it a box office hit.
8. The Last Warrior: Root of Evil (2021)
This fantasy adventure is a sequel to the popular “The Last Warrior” film. It continues the story of Ivan, a modern man who finds himself in a magical world filled with characters from Russian folklore. In this installment, Ivan must face a new threat that endangers both the magical realm and the real world.
“The Last Warrior: Root of Evil” built on the success of its predecessor, offering even more spectacular visual effects and diving deeper into Russian mythology. The film’s blend of humor, action, and fantasy elements appealed to a wide audience, making it one of the most-watched Russian movies in recent years.
9. Viking (2016)
“Viking” is a historical epic that tells the story of Prince Vladimir of Kiev, who would later become the ruler who Christianized Kievan Rus’, the early medieval state that would eventually become Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus. The film depicts Vladimir’s journey from a young prince to a powerful ruler, filled with battles, political intrigue, and personal struggles.
This big-budget production impressed viewers with its scale and attention to historical detail. While it took some liberties with historical accuracy for dramatic effect, “Viking” offered a visually stunning look at a crucial period in Russian history. Its success demonstrated the appetite for grand historical epics among Russian moviegoers.
10. Finist: The First Warrior (2025)
The most recent entry on our list, “Finist: The First Warrior” is based on Russian folklore and tells the story of Finist, a legendary hero. The film follows Finist as he embarks on a dangerous mission to the mysterious Eastern lands, learning valuable lessons about teamwork and humility along the way.
Released in early 2025, “Finist: The First Warrior” quickly became a box office sensation. Its blend of action, fantasy, and traditional Russian storytelling resonated with audiences of all ages. The movie’s stunning visuals, which showcase both the beauty of Russian landscapes and fantastical realms, helped make it an instant classic.
Bottom Line
These ten films represent the diversity and strength of Russian cinema. From historical epics and war dramas to fantasies and comedies, they showcase the wide range of stories that Russian filmmakers can tell. Each of these movies has left a lasting impact on Russian culture and helped to bring Russian cinema to a global audience.
As we look to the future, it’s exciting to think about what new Russian films might join this list in the coming years. The success of these movies has paved the way for more ambitious projects and has inspired a new generation of Russian filmmakers. Whether you’re a fan of Russian cinema or new to these films, this list offers a great starting point to explore some of the best that Russian movies have to offer.