The film was shot in Moscow, and the key locations became an important part of its atmosphere. One of the main filming locations was 6th Rostovsky Lane, where a set of the Three Poplars cafe was specially built, becoming a symbol of the characters' meeting. The house at Rostovskaya Embankment, 5 was used for scenes in the apartment where Nyura stayed. Nyura's meeting with taxi driver Alexander took place at Komsomolskaya Square, a bustling and characteristic spot of Moscow's rhythm.
The morning views of Moscow, including the Taras Shevchenko Embankment, create the film's melancholic mood, while walking scenes with views of Gorky Park and the Crimean Bridge highlight the contrast between the noisy city and the inner world of the characters. The village scenes were filmed in the village of Smedovo, reinforcing the opposition between Nyura's simple life and the bustle of the capital.

Filming Locations:

Square near the Station

In the Film

The scene where Nyura arrives in Moscow and exits the station onto the square, looking around bewildered. She holds a bag with homemade ham that she wants to sell in the city. She tries to catch a taxi but doesn't succeed immediately. She is picked up by taxi driver Alexander, who greets her with a kind smile and asks where she needs to go. On the way, they start talking, and Nyura tells about her family and the purpose of her trip, while Alexander shares memories of his life in Moscow and the difficult times of the Leningrad blockade.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at Komsomolskaya Square in Moscow. This location was ideal for the scene due to its significance as one of the central squares of the capital, symbolizing the movement and life of a big city. At Komsomolskaya Square, Nyura, who came from the village, encounters the dynamics of metropolitan life. The square is surrounded by major transport arteries and historical buildings, creating a contrast between her simplicity and the bustle of the metropolis. In this place, viewers can feel the atmosphere of anticipation and hope as Nyura catches a taxi and begins her journey through Moscow. Moreover, Komsomolskaya Square in the 1960s was less built-up than today, which allowed conveying the spirit of the time and showing Moscow as it was.

Nyura's House and the Cafe

In the Film

The scene where Nyura gets into Sasha's taxi. On the way, they start a conversation, and Nyura shares her impressions of Moscow, expressing admiration and excitement. Sasha listens attentively, asking questions and commenting on her stories, which helps create an atmosphere of trust. As the taxi moves through the streets of the capital, Nyura describes her life in the village and her dreams for the future. Sasha shares his memories of how he became a taxi driver and tells about his favorite places in Moscow. Approaching the house, Nyura starts to get nervous, realizing she cannot find the keys to the apartment. She apologizes to Sasha for the inconvenience. Sasha calms her down and offers help, highlighting his kindness and care. Eventually, they arrive at the house.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at the address Rostovskaya Embankment, 5 in Moscow, in a building known as the House of Architects, built in the 1930s under the direction of architect Alexey Shchusev. This location was ideal for the scene because the building has a unique architectural shape resembling a semicircle, symbolizing embrace and protection. This shape was designed to curve around the Annunciation Church located there, adding historical value and context to the surroundings. Rostovskaya Embankment itself is a picturesque spot on the high bank of the Moscow River, creating an atmosphere of comfort and tranquility. In this area, one feels a combination of urban bustle and natural beauty, making it a suitable backdrop for the development of the story about Nyura's life as she arrives in the capital from the village.

Sasha Gives a Ride to the Old Man

In the Film

The scene where Sasha, driving his taxi, notices an elderly man standing on the roadside and stops to help. The old man struggles to get into the car, and Sasha carefully helps him get comfortable. Striking up a conversation, Sasha asks the old man where he needs to go, and he begins to talk about his life. The old man shares memories of the past—about family, work, and hardships endured—his words filled with nostalgia and bitterness. A warm emotional connection develops between them: the old man feels heard, and Sasha reflects on the meaning of human relationships. When they arrive at the destination, the old man thanks Sasha for his help and for listening to his stories. Sasha helps the old man out of the car and wishes him well before driving off.

In Reality

The scene was filmed on Bolshaya Pirogovskaya Street, at the dormitory of the Institute of Red Professors. This location was chosen not by chance: the building is a solid example of constructivist architecture and symbolizes the importance of education and science in Soviet society. The old man, being a professor, received a room in this dormitory thanks to his merits and dedication to his work. This circumstance adds depth to his character and highlights his life journey, full of achievements and hardships. The location perfectly suits conveying the atmosphere of metropolitan life and the interaction between different generations. Furthermore, the dormitory serves as a backdrop for scenes where characters confront the reality of urban life. This place symbolizes both the opportunity for young people to study and develop, and the loneliness that can arise in a big city.