20 Best Russian Movies Since 1990: Must-Watch Picks from Modern Russian Cinema

See also: Top 50 Must-Watch Soviet Movies

2. The Wish of the Fairy Fish (По щучьему велению, 2023)

A modern retelling of a classic Russian fairytale, this fantasy comedy follows a simple village boy who catches a magical fish. Granting him wishes, the fish leads him on an unexpected adventure full of humorous and heartwarming moments. The film combines folklore with contemporary humor, offering a family-friendly experience with vibrant visuals and a message about kindness and the consequences of greed.

3. Son of a Rich 2 (Холоп 2, 2023)

In this sequel, Grisha, now a reformed man, tries to navigate his new modest life after the events of the first movie. However, he faces new temptations and challenges when he's thrust back into a world of wealth and luxury. The film delivers a comedic yet insightful look at personal growth, class divides, and the struggle to maintain one's values in a materialistic society.

4. Brother 2 (Брат 2, 2000)

Danila returns in this action-packed sequel, traveling to the United States to help a friend entangled in a mob conflict. The movie explores the Russian immigrant experience in America, highlighting cultural clashes while Danila takes on the criminal world with his own brand of justice. With iconic dialogue and a strong sense of style, it's a cult favorite that cemented the Brother series' legacy.

5. Son of a Rich (Холоп, 2019)

Grisha is a spoiled millionaire whose father, frustrated with his son's reckless behavior, stages an elaborate social experiment. He is sent to a remote village where everyone treats him as a common serf from the 19th century. This comedic scenario forces Grisha to adapt, learn humility, and reconsider his life choices in this clever satire on privilege and entitlement.

6. Dad (Батя, 2021)

Dad is a touching comedy-drama that reflects on the generational gap between fathers and sons in modern Russia. It follows the experiences of a father raising his son while dealing with the challenges of parenthood and changing societal norms. The film's humor and heartfelt moments provide a nostalgic look at family dynamics, blending humor with deeper emotional themes.

7. The Silver Spoon Goes South (Мажор в Сочи, 2022)

A continuation of the Silver Spoon series, this movie takes the protagonist, Igor Sokolovsky, to Sochi. Here, he finds himself embroiled in a new mystery involving wealthy elites, crime, and corruption in the vibrant resort city. Mixing drama, crime, and a bit of romance, it offers an exciting glimpse into the lives of Russia's rich and powerful.

8. Major Grom: Plague Doctor (Майор Гром: Чумной Доктор, 2021)

This action-packed superhero movie centers on Major Igor Grom, a tough and principled police officer from St. Petersburg. He faces a masked vigilante known as the Plague Doctor, who seeks to punish corrupt elites. With dynamic action sequences and a compelling storyline, the film introduces a new Russian superhero in a setting blending crime drama with comic book flair.

9. The Last Warrior (Последний богатырь, 2017)

A fantasy adventure set in the world of Russian folklore, the story follows Ivan, a modern-day man who accidentally ends up in a mystical land. He teams up with legendary fairytale characters to battle dark forces. The film combines humor, action, and stunning visuals, making it a popular choice for family entertainment.

10. Cheburashka (Чебурашка, 2023)

The beloved Soviet-era cartoon character Cheburashka gets a modern update in this heartwarming family film. It follows the adventures of the cute, big-eared creature as he navigates a world full of strange humans. The film blends nostalgia with new storylines, appealing to both children and adults who grew up with the classic character.

11. Tri bogatyrya i Kon na trone (Три богатыря и Конь на троне, 2021)

This animated comedy follows the three legendary Russian knights, the bogatyrs, as they deal with yet another outrageous situation when their trusty steed becomes a king. Full of humor and cultural references, the movie offers a fun, family-friendly adventure with beloved characters from Russian folklore.

12. Legend No. 17 (Легенда №17, 2013)

A biographical sports drama about Soviet hockey legend Valeri Kharlamov, the film focuses on his rise to fame and the historic 1972 Summit Series against Canada. It showcases Kharlamov's perseverance and the spirit of Soviet sportsmanship, making it an inspiring story of dedication and triumph.

13. Upon the Magic Roads (Конёк-Горбунок, 2021)

This fantasy adventure film is based on a classic Russian fairytale about a young peasant and his magical horse. The duo embarks on a series of whimsical and dangerous quests. The movie combines humor, breathtaking visuals, and traditional folklore, appealing to fans of magical stories.

14. Baba Yaga spasaet mir (Баба Яга спасает мир, 2023)

This family-friendly fantasy follows the legendary witch Baba Yaga as she unexpectedly becomes a hero. When a dark force threatens the magical world, she must join forces with unlikely allies. The movie offers a playful spin on the classic character, blending humor, magic, and a positive message about embracing one's inner strength.

15. The Fool (Дурак, 2014)

A gritty social drama that portrays a plumber's desperate fight against corruption as he tries to save residents of a dilapidated building. The film highlights themes of moral courage, social decay, and the challenges faced by ordinary people in a system rife with apathy and corruption.

See also: Movie Review: The Fool (2014) - One of the best Russian movies

16. Three Seconds (Движение вверх, 2017)

A sports drama recounting the legendary victory of the Soviet basketball team against the USA in the 1972 Olympics. It dramatizes the tense final moments and the team's struggle, offering an inspirational portrayal of one of the greatest underdog stories in sports history.

17. The Challenge (Вызов, 2023)

In this groundbreaking space drama, a surgeon is sent to the International Space Station to perform a life-saving operation on a cosmonaut. Filmed in space, the movie blends elements of science fiction with a realistic portrayal of space travel, making it a unique cinematic experience.

18. Dead Man's Bluff (Жмурки, 2005)

A dark comedy-crime film set in the chaotic 1990s, where two small-time crooks stumble through a series of mishaps while trying to complete a job for their gangster boss. The movie's dark humor and absurd situations offer a satirical look at the lawless post-Soviet era.

19. Alyosha Popovich i Tugarin Zmey (Алеша Попович и Тугарин Змей, 2004)

This animated film tells the story of Alyosha Popovich, a young warrior who sets out to save his town from the evil dragon Tugarin. Full of humor, action, and folklore, it is a delightful tale that introduces Russian legends to a new generation.

20. The Rifleman of the Voroshilov Regiment (Ворошиловский стрелок, 1999)

A gripping revenge drama about a retired war veteran who takes justice into his own hands after his granddaughter is brutally assaulted. The film explores themes of justice, revenge, and the failure of the legal system in a powerful, emotional narrative.