The Russian disaster film directed by Anton Megerdichev is based on the novel of the same name by Dmitry Safonov. It draws not only from the literary plot but also from real events in 1974, when quicksand destroyed tunnels on the Kirov-Vyborg line of the Leningrad metro. Initially, filming was planned in the Minsk Metro, but after the terrorist attack at Oktyabrskaya station, the idea was abandoned. Ultimately, key scenes were shot in the Samara Metro, whose management supported the project. To avoid a documentary feel, the action takes place at fictional stations: Sadovaya (filmed at Moskovskaya station) and Borodinskaya (using the unfinished Alabinskaya station). Small scenes were filmed in the Samara Metro depot, and the entrance to the above-ground vestibule of Sadovaya is at the Rostelecom building in Moscow. The final shots were filmed on Novodevichy Proezd. Filming began on May 6, 2011, and took place in Samara from October 9 to 25. The first scenes were shot at Borodinskaya, where the crew worked in respirators due to concrete dust. An improvised pool was created on unfinished railway tracks for flood scenes, with water heated for the actors' comfort, but many scenes required working in cold water using wetsuits. About 800 Samara residents, including actors from local theaters, participated as extras.

Filming Locations:

Square near Sadovaya Station

In the Movie

Scene where Sergeich, a middle-aged man, drinks near Sadovaya station with a stranger named Galina. He suddenly remembers that the water leaking in the metro tunnel smelled of algae, indicating it is not groundwater. At that moment, the police notice them and try to arrest the sweet couple for drinking alcohol in a public place. However, Galina seizes the opportunity, runs away, and disappears into the metro.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at Zubovskaya Street, building 3. The street is located in the center of Moscow, in the Khamovniki district, which is one of the historical and prestigious areas of the city. The building itself at Zubovskaya Street 3 is part of an architectural ensemble from the late 19th to early 20th century, with elements of historical development. The street is in close proximity to major business and cultural centers of Moscow, making it attractive for filming, especially for shots requiring a recognizable Moscow context.

Sadovaya Station

In the Movie

Scene where businessman Vlad Konstantinov hurries to work. But since all events take place in Moscow, we all understand the traffic situation there. Vlad decides to take a shortcut using the underground transport and descends to Sadovaya station.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at Moskovskaya station of the Samara Metro. It opened in 1987 and is part of the southern line of the metro. The station is located in a densely built-up area, making it an important transport hub for city residents. Architecturally, Moskovskaya station is designed in the classic Soviet metro style, with elements of strict lines and functionalism characteristic of that time.

Street

In the Movie

Scene where the characters reach a shelter and climb out through a grate to the surface. Exhausted but happy, they finally see sunlight, soft clouds, and feel a gentle breeze instead of the enclosed metro vaults. There they are met by an ambulance crew and TV news crews.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at Novodevichy Proezd in Moscow — a quiet and picturesque street located in a prestigious area of the city, near the Novodevichy Convent. This area is known for its greenery and architecture, blending historic buildings with modern residential complexes. An excellent place to showcase the beauty of the capital.