As May 2025 rolls in, moviegoers are in for a treat with a lineup of 14 exciting films hitting theaters across Russia and beyond. From heartfelt dramas to thrilling adventures, the month promises a diverse array of cinematic experiences that cater to all tastes.
The first film to grace the screens is "Was Not Listed," a military drama based on Boris Vasilyev's story about the defenders of the Brest Fortress. The film, which started showing on May 1, features young lieutenant Nikolai Pluzhnikov, played by Vladislav Miller, who finds himself at the center of the war in its early hours. Vladimir Mashkov portrays the senior sergeant, becoming a symbol of resilience in the face of adversity.
Also premiering on May 1 is "Crouching Gnomes," a fantasy-comedy where a con artist, played by Nikita Kologrivyy, inherits a quartet of magical dwarfs. To mine gold, he must prove himself worthy of their trust. Another film releasing the same day is "Legends of Our Forefathers," directed by Ivan Sosnin. This film tells the story of a journalist, played by Alexander Yatsenko, who embarks on a mission to save mythical beings from oblivion. The film has received praise for its blend of fantasy and philosophical depth.
"Greetings to My Husband," a melodrama featuring Yulia Peresild as a woman torn between her comatose husband and a new love interest, also premieres on May 1. This film recently won accolades at the Moscow International Film Festival.
Moving to the next week, May 8 brings "Final," a sports drama depicting Russia's triumph in the 2012 Olympic volleyball final against Brazil. This film captures the spirit of victory and teamwork that resonates with sports enthusiasts.
On the same day, audiences can look forward to "Blood Group," a heavy drama by Maxim Brius about a children's concentration camp in Vyrica near Leningrad. The film promises to be a powerful and emotional viewing experience.
For those seeking a lighter experience, "Without Temptation," a comedy featuring Pavel Derevyanko as a demon offering a deal with unexpected consequences, also releases on May 8.
As the month progresses, May 15 introduces "There," a road movie starring Pyotr Fyodorov and Irina Starshenbaum, chronicling a 1500 km journey of self-discovery. Another film debuting on the same day is "True Friend," which tells the story of a writer, played by Naomi Watts, and her giant Great Dane left by a friend, portrayed by Bill Murray.
On May 22, viewers can enjoy "Solovey versus Muromets," a fantastical tale featuring Ilya Muromets with a mechanical heart battling the Nightingale the Robber. Additionally, the romantic comedy "A Couple for a Couple" will also premiere, showcasing the attempts of a man to win back his ex-wife.
The month wraps up with the horror film "Return of the Dead," directed by Australian filmmakers Danny and Michael Philippou, on May 29. The film follows children under the care of a mentally unstable guardian.
In the realm of streaming, "One Simple Request," a thriller sequel featuring Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick, will be available from May 1, where a wedding in Capri turns into a murder mystery. On May 23, viewers can look forward to "Source of Eternal Youth," an adventure film directed by Guy Ritchie, starring Natalie Portman and John Krasinski as they embark on a quest for immortality.
The month also sees the debut of "Ochi," a film that merges children’s fantasy with deeper themes, set to release on May 8. The story revolves around a girl named Yuri, who discovers a small, hairy creature in the woods.
Another anticipated release on May 8 is "Thirst for Glory," which stars Jonathan Majors as a bodybuilder aspiring for fame while grappling with personal demons. This film is particularly noteworthy as it was delayed due to the actor's legal issues but is now set to hit screens.
For those interested in historical narratives, "Kukushka," a Yakut horror film, will be released on May 29, exploring themes of revenge and the supernatural.
On the animation front, the fairy-tale film "The Secret of the Tooth Fairies" will be released in theaters on May 2 and on video on May 20. This whimsical tale follows a young fairy named Van, who embarks on an adventure beyond his mundane life of collecting teeth.
May 2025 also marks the return of beloved series and timeless classics. The second season of "Living Corpses: Dead City" will premiere on May 5, bringing back the thrilling narrative that captivated audiences in its first season.
For fans of classic cinema, the restored version of "Man with a Movie Camera" by Dziga Vertov will be available on May 22, showcasing the innovative techniques of early Soviet cinema.
In addition, the animated film "Prism in the Eyes 2: Innocence" will hit theaters on May 15, continuing the legacy of the original with its captivating storytelling.
As the month unfolds, it’s clear that May 2025 will be a vibrant time for cinema lovers. With a mix of genres, from heartfelt dramas to spine-chilling horrors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
