The filming of the movie took place in several iconic locations that helped recreate the atmosphere of the life and career of the legendary figure skater. The main location was Moscow, where scenes of training, performances, and Irina Rodnina's personal life were filmed. In the capital, the interiors of sports schools and ice rinks where most of her professional journey took place were also recreated.
Part of the filming took place in Yekaterinburg, which provided modern ice rinks for staged scenes. Kharitonovsky Park in this city was used to create winter street episodes that emphasize the spirit of the time. The locations were carefully chosen to convey the atmosphere of the USSR in the 1960s–1970s.
Some scenes were filmed at active ice rinks, where professional figure skaters helped stage complex elements. Archival materials and decorations corresponding to the era were used to create a realistic atmosphere. The film crew paid attention even to small details so that viewers could feel part of that time.
Thus, the choice of filming locations became an important part of the work on the film, helping to reveal both Rodnina's sports career and her personal story.

Filming Locations:

Training Rink

In the Movie

Scene where Irina Rodnina conducts intense training before important competitions. She steps onto a freshly flooded ice rink surrounded by sparkling garlands, fluffy snow falling. Despite the beauty of the surrounding landscape, tension and anxiety are visible on her face. Irina focuses on her jumps, repeating elements over and over. Each time something doesn't work out, she feels disappointment and fatigue. At times she stops, lowering her head and wiping away tears, realizing how high the demands on her as an athlete are. The scene shows her struggle with inner demons and fears that often accompany athletes on the path to success. Despite the difficulties, Rodnina does not give up; she tries again and again to perform complex elements, demonstrating her dedication to the cause and striving for perfection.

In Reality

The scene was filmed in Kharitonovsky Park, located in the center of Yekaterinburg, which became an ideal place for filming the movie "Rodnina" due to its historical and cultural significance. The park was founded in 1826 and designed in the English style, creating an atmosphere of natural beauty and coziness. Its picturesque alleys, artificial pond with islands, and famous rotunda give the place a special charm, perfectly suited for scenes related to figure skating. The scene of Irina Rodnina's training in Kharitonovsky Park emphasizes the contrast between her inner experiences and the surrounding beauty. The park represents not only a place for relaxation but also a symbol of struggle and striving for perfection. Its calm atmosphere helps convey the emotions of the main character as she faces difficulties on the path to success. In addition, Kharitonovsky Park is a popular place among citizens and tourists, which adds realism to what is happening on screen. Various events and celebrations are regularly held here, making it a lively and dynamic space. Thus, the choice of Kharitonovsky Park for filming contributes to creating a deep emotional connection between the viewer and the story of the great figure skater's life.

Stadium

In the Movie

Scene where Irina Rodnina and Alexei Ulanov stand backstage, preparing for their performance at the European Championships. Irina nervously adjusts her costume and takes a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart. When their names are announced, they step onto the ice, and Irina assumes the starting pose, focusing on the music. At first, they perform smooth movements, gliding synchronously across the ice. Irina executes a difficult throw jump but lands imperfectly, causing a brief moment of confusion. Nevertheless, she quickly regains confidence and continues the program with even more determination. At the climax of the performance, Alexei lifts Irina high above his head, and she extends her arms in an elegant pose. The music ends, and they freeze in a striking final position. After the program ends, the hall erupts in applause, and the pair bows to the audience. It was here at the 1969 European Championships in Garmisch-Partenkirchen that Irina Rodnina and her partner Alexei Ulanov won their first gold. This event became a landmark in the figure skater's career and marked the beginning of her triumphant journey in the world of figure skating.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at the Ice Sports Palace in Pervouralsk. This location was ideal for creating the necessary atmosphere due to its modern design and high-quality ice surface. The Ice Palace, located on Ilyich Avenue, served as an excellent substitute for the historical arena, providing viewers with a sense of the scale and significance of the competition. The spacious hall and high ceilings created the effect of a real sporting event, and the lighting emphasized the emotional tension of the moment. Additionally, the palace's architecture, with its modern lines and bright colors, visually conveyed the spirit of competition. The scenes of skaters' training and performances against such a backdrop looked very realistic, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the 1969 European Championships in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Thus, the Ice Palace in Pervouralsk not only provided the necessary conditions for filming but also became an important part of the visual narrative of the film about Irina Rodnina's life.