This collection of Soviet films focuses on the lives of peasants, showcasing the struggles, joys, and everyday existence in rural Soviet Union. These films provide a window into the past, offering insights into the cultural, social, and political aspects of peasant life. They are not only a testament to the resilience and spirit of the Soviet countryside but also serve as an educational tool for understanding the historical context of the era.

Earth (1930)
Description: This silent film by Alexander Dovzhenko captures the transition from traditional peasant life to collectivization, reflecting the profound changes in Soviet agriculture.
Fact: The film was banned in the Soviet Union for a time due to its perceived criticism of collectivization. It was later restored and recognized for its artistic value.


The Village Teacher (1947)
Description: A heartwarming tale about a young teacher who comes to a remote village to educate the children, highlighting the importance of education in rural areas.
Fact: The film was one of the first to be shown in the UK with English subtitles, promoting Soviet culture abroad.


The Cossacks of Kuban (1950)
Description: A musical comedy that celebrates the life and culture of the Cossacks, focusing on their agricultural achievements and community spirit.
Fact: This film was one of the most popular Soviet films of its time, known for its vibrant music and dance sequences.


The Forty-First (1956)
Description: Set during the Russian Civil War, this film tells the story of a Red Army sniper who must guard a captured White officer, exploring themes of duty, love, and class struggle in a rural setting.
Fact: The film was remade in 1975, but the original is often considered more authentic to the era's atmosphere.


The Chairman (1964)
Description: A film about a collective farm chairman who faces various challenges in managing his community, reflecting the complexities of rural leadership during the Khrushchev era.
Fact: The film was praised for its realistic portrayal of rural Soviet life and was a box office success.


The Red Tent (1969)
Description: While not exclusively about peasants, this film includes scenes of rural life and the impact of the outside world on a remote community.
Fact: The film features international stars like Sean Connery and Claudia Cardinale, making it a unique blend of Soviet and Western cinema.


The Ascent (1977)
Description: Set during World War II, this film follows two partisans in a Belarusian village, showcasing the harsh realities of peasant life under occupation.
Fact: It won the Golden Prize at the 10th Moscow International Film Festival and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.


The Peasant Woman (1979)
Description: A story of a peasant woman's struggle for independence and respect in her village, reflecting the changing roles of women in Soviet society.
Fact: The film was part of a series of Soviet films focusing on women's issues in rural settings.


Come and See (1985)
Description: Although primarily a war film, it includes significant scenes of peasant life in Belarus during the German occupation, highlighting the brutality of war on rural communities.
Fact: The film was critically acclaimed for its raw depiction of war and was ranked among the greatest war films ever made.


The Cold Summer of 1953 (1988)
Description: Set in a remote village, this film explores the tension between former prisoners and local peasants, reflecting on the aftermath of Stalin's purges.
Fact: The film was one of the last to be produced during the Soviet era, capturing the atmosphere of the late 1980s.
