This film is an author's project, filmed in Cherkessk, the director's hometown. Interestingly, 'Express' became the first film shot in the Karachay-Cherkess Republic. The main character, Sasha Soslanov, or simply Sos, always remains cheerful despite difficulties. He was expelled from university, left homeless, and his beloved Nina moved to Moscow — but this does not scare him. Sos finds solace in gambling and believes in luck. One day he decides to make a desperate bet on the 'Express' and incredibly wins. However, on the very first day of his win, he loses the card on which the prize was recorded. Now he has only three days to find the lost card. Thus begins his adventure in Cherkessia.

Filming Locations:

Apartment

In the Movie

The scene where the drama unfolds in a small panel apartment. One of its inhabitants, Oleg, refuses to leave the dwelling, despite the fact that the apartment has already been sold and the new owners are about to move in. He melancholically plays the guitar and avoids answering.

In Reality

The scene was filmed in a multi-story panel building on Lenin Street in Karachayevsk. This building is characterized by simple architecture and functionality. Despite the modest appearance of the building itself, it is surrounded by a beautiful view of the mountains and hills of this region.

Street

In the Movie

The scene where Sasha, filled with determination and anxiety, decides to catch up with Nina, who went out for a morning jog. He tries to keep up with her despite his lack of athletic training. Sasha hurries after Nina to find out the reason for her move.

In Reality

The scene was filmed on the same Lenin Street in Karachayevsk. The street features architecture typical of Russian small towns, with a predominance of panel and brick houses. It is perfectly suited for filming scenes with a modern Russian backdrop.

Bridge

In the Movie

The scene where fate does not smile on Sasha, but rather shows its fangs. Fleeing from local thugs, the hero runs onto a bridge over a turbulent river. After a couple of moments, it becomes clear that the only way to retreat is the river itself.

In Reality

The scene was filmed on the bridge over the Teberda River, located in the Karachay-Cherkess Republic. The Teberda River, flowing among mountain slopes, also runs through the city of Karachayevsk and, believe it or not, through our already beloved Lenin Street! So the film crew didn't even need to go out into nature. For the most attentive viewers and readers of our site, one of the photos contains a cute bonus.