For modern viewers, «Scarecrow» is an undeniable classic of children's cinema, but 40 years ago its premiere sparked considerable controversy. Many were not ready for the harshness shown in the film and did not even suspect that its plot was based on real events. However, over the years it became obvious: Roland Bykov's film has not lost its relevance; on the contrary, it has gained even greater significance. This is a story about the resilience of the human spirit, which managed to withstand the cruelty of the surrounding world. At the center of the plot is sixth-grader Lena Bessoltseva, a kind, honest, and naive girl. After moving to a new city, she faces rejection from her classmates. At first, her grandfather, a modest and thrifty man who prefers to invest in art rather than new clothes, becomes the target of ridicule. Then the bullying spreads to Lena herself—for her sincerity, kindness, and desire to see only good in people. She does not talk back, does not adapt to the cruel rules of the group, and is even ready to take the blame for someone else—and this is what makes her an outcast. The filming process turned out to be no less challenging than the casting. The film was shot in autumn in Kalinin (now Tver), but nature made its own adjustments—it snowed every day. To preserve the autumn atmosphere, the film crew had to melt the snow and scatter pre-prepared fallen leaves around the set. Some scenes were filmed in the neighboring town of Torzhok, whose historical architecture perfectly complemented the visual style of the film.

Filming Locations:

Bench on the Street

In the Movie

Scene where a group of schoolchildren sits on a wooden street bench. The sky is overcast, the air filled with autumn dampness. In the center of attention is a small transistor radio from which music is playing. It is not just a melody—it is part of their world, their little ritual, an opportunity to spend time together.

In Reality

The scene was filmed near the river station in Tver. The station is located on the banks of the Volga River, not far from the confluence of the Tvertsa River. The station building itself is a light-colored structure with columns, reminiscent of Soviet architecture. Now it looks a bit neglected, with peeling paint and signs of wear, but it still retains a majestic appearance.

Lena's House

In the Movie

Scene where the grandfather notices with horror that Lena is lying on the ground. When he lifts her, he realizes the situation is even worse—his granddaughter's face is bloody, her hair is disheveled, and there is pain in her eyes. Without asking unnecessary questions, he takes the girl by the shoulders and, holding her tightly, hastily leads her home.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at house No. 47 on the Volga River Embankment in Tver. This is an old residential building, likely built in the late 19th – early 20th century. Its facade faces the embankment, offering a view of the Volga, bridges, and the opposite bank. The architectural style of the house is typical of this part of Tver: tall windows, massive walls, decorative elements on the facade. This building was used for the exterior of Lena Bessoltseva's house. The interiors were filmed at Mosfilm.

School

In the Movie

Scene where the pioneers enter the school in an orderly manner. Some walk briskly, some talk quietly with a friend, but the overall order is not disturbed. A teacher stands at the entrance with flowers. One by one, the students greet her: 'Hello, Alexandra Vasilievna!' The teacher responds with a nod, sometimes a restrained smile.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at the Tver Children's Regional Hospital. This is a large Soviet-era building located in the city center. Its facades, made of light brick, have a strict, functional appearance and are perfectly suited for the exterior of an educational institution.