Eldar Ryazanov is remembered as one of the most influential and beloved directors in the post-Stalin Soviet era. Phrases from his movies, which is often co-wrote are still quoted by Russians as much as pieces of folk wisdom as pop culture references. He is best known for light comedies that also delivered social reflection, moral […]

Orthodox song (православные песни) is a unique genre of Christian music that draws upon the traditions of the soviet bards, estrada, and sung poetry popular in Russia and Eastern Europe. Sung by both laity and “priest-bards,” the music experienced rising popularity in the decade following the fall of the USSR as religious affiliation surged in […]