The drama “Righteous” dominated the weekend box office in Russia and the CIS, pulling in 187.5 million rubles as the numbers rolled in from Kinobusiness with preliminary, unofficial data. The film’s performance sparked conversation about how true stories from wartime heroism translate into contemporary cinema and audience turnout across the region.
The storyline draws on the real exploits of Soviet officer Nikolai Kiselev, who helped rescue 218 Soviet Jews during the critical months of August through October 1942. In 2005, Yad Vashem, Israel’s international Holocaust research institute, recognized Kiselev with the title Righteous Among the Nations, underscoring the lasting impact of his actions on collective memory and historical record. This recognition often enhances interest in films that portray such acts of courage to modern audiences.
In second place, the family-friendly feature “Cheburashka” accumulated 120.5 million rubles, continuing its appeal to viewers seeking warm, nostalgic storytelling and gentle humor. Following close behind, the comedy “Fathers Against Mothers” drew 69 million rubles, a lighthearted entry that centers on the everyday dynamics of two families as parents navigate reconciliation between children and a grandfather who mediates their differences.
Rounding out the top five, the erotic melodrama “Naughty” captured 60 million rubles, while the thriller “Rabies” earned 47.1 million rubles, offering stark contrast in genre and mood. The weekend lineup illustrates a diverse slate that reflects varied preferences among audiences in the region, from heartfelt family narratives to pulse-pounding suspense and steamy romance.
Overall, the results highlight how recent releases are positioning themselves against established titles. The top performers show a mix of cultural resonance, star power, and broad accessibility, contributing to a robust start for the season and signaling audience appetite for a wide range of storytelling approaches. As the market continues to evolve, analysts and exhibitors will be watching closely to see whether these trends persist across subsequent weekends. [Cited from Kinobusiness and industry reporting]