Stepan Guslyakov's Harem

The husband of a terminally ill Claudia falls in love with a neighbor, Marisha, who helps him with the housework in the absence of his wife. And a year and a half later, Claudia returns from the hospital.

Directed by Alisher Khamdamov, Stepan Guslyakov's Harem leans on a strong ensemble — Vladimir Litvinov, Olga Bogachyova, Lyudmila Baranova — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 1990.