The film was shot in Saint Petersburg, and the city became an important part of its atmosphere. The apartment of the main character, Andrei Buzykin, was located at 23/1 Korablestroiteley Street — this place symbolizes his family life. The communal apartment of Alla, Andrei's lover, was at 18 Nevsky Prospekt, on the corner with the Moika River. Scenes of the hero's walks and reflections were often filmed along the Kryukov Canal and the Fontanka River, which added a romantic mood to the film. The Engineer's Castle became the starting point of Buzykin's famous run to Alla. The film also features a passageway on Millionnaya Street, which emphasizes the hustle and chaos in the hero's life. These locations not only reflect the everyday life of the city in the late 1970s but also enhance the drama and emotional depth of the film. The city becomes a living participant in the events, helping to convey the mood of the characters and their inner struggle.

Filming Locations:

Party

In the Film

The scene where our heroes come to a party with a special theme – almost everyone is dressed in togas, the ancient Roman attire of high-status people. Despite this style, everyone enjoys a jazz orchestra, dances, and simply has fun.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at the Center for Teaching and Learning of Northwest Christian University. Inside the building, there are spacious lecture halls and group work areas. The surrounding landscape is well-maintained with green lawns, trees, and convenient pedestrian paths. This location is ideal for filming scenes related to academic life, lectures, scientific research, or even student parties.

Andrei's House

In the Film

The scene where Andrei returns home after meeting Alla. He enters the apartment, and the viewer immediately feels an atmosphere of tension. The apartment is modestly furnished, emphasizing the ordinariness of his life. Photographs hang on the walls, and old furniture stands in the corner — all of this creates a sense of stability but also oppressiveness. When Andrei enters, Nina is already waiting for him with questions about his delay. She shows concern, but her kindness turns into dissatisfaction due to her husband's constant lateness. At this moment, an emotional conflict occurs: Andrei tries to justify himself, but his words sound unconvincing. Nina senses deception and betrayal, leading to a quarrel.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at 23 Korablestroiteley Street in Saint Petersburg. This residential building, constructed in 1972, is a typical example of buildings from that time, creating a realistic backdrop for the story set in the late 1970s. The facades are in light colors, and the balconies and loggias add visual diversity, making the place picturesque and memorable. The building's location in a historic district of the city allows easy integration of scenes with the surrounding urban environment, being in close proximity to Nevsky Prospekt and the river embankments. Andrei Buzykin's apartment reflects his inner turmoil and everyday life, and the typical layout helps emphasize the contrast between his family responsibilities and romantic pursuits. This makes the house not just a backdrop but an active participant in the plot, enhancing the emotional weight of the scenes.

Hotel

In the Film

The scene where Andrei and Hansen spend time in the hotel, drinking vodka and discussing life. Hansen, who is intoxicated, behaves eccentrically and openly expresses his thoughts about women and life, contrasting with the more reserved and indecisive Andrei. In this setting, Andrei tries to find support and understanding but instead encounters Hansen's frivolity and bluntness.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at the Grand Hotel Europe in Saint Petersburg. This historic hotel, opened in 1875, has become a symbol of luxury and elegance, combining Art Nouveau elements with modern comfort. Its central location on the corner of Nevsky Prospekt and Mikhailovskaya Street makes it an ideal place for visitors like Professor Hansen. The secluded atmosphere of the hotel rooms creates an opportunity for frank conversations, which is perfect for the scene where Andrei tries to sort out his feelings. The hotel interiors, decorated in the style of the early 20th century, add visual appeal and emphasize the contrast between the characters' inner experiences and the outside world. The Grand Hotel Europe becomes not just a backdrop for the meeting but an important element of the plot, reflecting Andrei's internal conflicts and his quest for self-understanding.