Mosca does not believe in tears

Released in 1980, “Mosca Does Not Believe in Tears” (original title: “Moskva slezam ne verit”) quickly became a beloved film in the Soviet Union. Directed by Vladimir Menshov, this beautifully crafted drama explores the lives of three young women, their ambitions, and the pursuit of happiness in a male-dominated society.

Set in Moscow, the story follows the journey of three friends: Katerina (played by Vera Alentova), Lyudmila (played by Irina Muravyova), and Antonina (played by Raisa Ryazanova). The film spans over two decades, starting in the 1950s when the three women first meet as roommates in the same dormitory, and continues into the 1970s, documenting the dramatic changes in their lives.

Katerina, a talented and ambitious country girl, dreams of becoming successful and independent. However, her path to personal fulfillment is full of obstacles. She faces challenges in her pursuit of a successful career and a fulfilling romance. The film explores the realities faced by women in 1950s Soviet Union, traditional societal expectations often clashed with their aspirations for personal and professional accomplishments.

Lyudmila, on the other hand, represents the struggles of a provincial girl trying to adapt to the fast-paced life of Moscow. She initially finds solace in her friendship with Katerina and Antonina, and shares their dreams of a brighter future. However, life takes an unexpected turn for Lyudmila, testing her resilience and highlighting the harsh realities that many working-class women faced during those times.

Antonina, who brings a lightheartedness to the film, is an embodiment of the successful and confident urban woman. She embraces her femininity while navigating the complexities of relationships and societal expectations. Antonina’s character serves as a contrast to Katerina and Lyudmila. She embodies the triumphs and sacrifices that women often make to establish themselves in their careers and personal lives.

“Mosca Does Not Believe in Tears” is not just a movie about female friendships, but a film that tackles gender dynamics and the evolving role of women in Soviet society. Despite the challenges and setbacks faced by the characters, the film celebrates the resilience and determination of these women, as well as their ability to chase their dreams even in the face of adversity.

The film was praised for its honest and realistic portrayal of women’s lives, and its exploration of the choices they often had to make between personal fulfillment and societal expectations. The performances by Alentova, Muravyova, and Ryazanova were widely acclaimed, with each actress bringing depth and authenticity to their respective roles.

In 1981, “Mosca Does Not Believe in Tears” won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, further solidifying its status as a classic. It remains one of the most beloved and enduring films in Russian cinema, serving as a timeless reminder of the importance of female empowerment and the pursuit of individual dreams.

In conclusion, “Mosca Does Not Believe in Tears” is a masterpiece of Soviet cinema, a timeless exploration of women’s lives and their struggles for personal fulfillment. The film’s depiction of female friendships, the complexities of societal expectations, and the pursuit of happiness resonates with audiences to this day, making it a must-watch for cinephiles and those interested in the sociocultural history of the Soviet Union.