Thief

Arriving in Moscow in search of a better life, the naive provincial woman learns the predatory customs of the stone jungle of the big city. Accused by the metropolitan racket of stealing a family relic, she ends up in jail. According to the laws of the genre and “happy” chance, a virtuous lawyer meets her. The girl not only comes out of prison, but also seeks personal happiness.

Directed by Valeriy Uskov, Vladimir Krasnopolskiy, Thief leans on a strong ensemble — Olga Vilner, Gennadiy Nazarov, Andrey Barilo — 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 comedy titles of 1994.