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Poster of A Cruel Romance

A Cruel Romance (1984)

Where to Watch in

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Where to Watch in

Purchase

Plot

In the heart of Russia's nobility, the tale of A Cruel Romance unfolds, cinematically breathing life into A. Ostrovsky's classic play, "Dowry-less." Central to the plot is Harita Ignatievna Ogudalova, a highborn widow bearing a respected family name and the weight of her three unwed daughters' futures. The death of her husband, Dmitriy Stepanovich, has left them penniless but not powerless, as she relentlessly seeks to secure their futures. Every day, she delicately orchestrates an 'open house,' a provincial salon of sorts, transforming their humble abode into a vibrant tableau of youthful beauty and enchanting music. The aim? To lure wealthy, eligible bachelors who might be captivated enough to marry without the enticement of a dowry, to fall in love with women who have nothing to offer but themselves. As this noble yet impoverished widow navigates the treacherous waters of societal expectations, her daughters become pawns in a game of love and survival. A Cruel Romance is a poignant exploration of the lengths one will go to secure a decent life for their loved ones, with the backdrop of a society where love is secondary to status and wealth. This film is a testament to a mother's desperate hope in the face of harsh reality, a timeless narrative that will resonate deeply with its viewers.

Where to watch A Cruel Romance?

A Cruel Romance is a drama movie featuring Alisa Freyndlikh and directed by Eldar Ryazanov.

It is possible to buy A Cruel Romance on Apple iTunes.