The film adaptation titled Under the Command of the Pike retells a classic Russian folk tale through a modern cinematic lens, featuring Nikita Kologriv in the role of Emelya. The project premiered on October 26 and, according to data from the Unified Federal Automated Information System, which is maintained by the Cinema Fund to track cinema screenings, it quickly drew strong audience numbers and substantial box office returns.
As reported through November 5, the film accumulated 1,000,818,387 rubles in gross revenue, while more than 3.7 million viewers purchased tickets to see the movie in theaters. These figures underscore the film’s broad appeal across national audiences and its ability to attract families and fans of the source material alike.
The plot follows the folkloric arc of the tale known in Russian tradition as At the Command of the Pike. In the story, a somewhat naïve Emelya encounters a magical pike that rises from the river with the power to grant wishes. The pike agrees to fulfill three wishes, ultimately granting two while saving the final wish for a more pivotal moment. Emelya’s journey becomes brighter as a bond forms between him and Princess Anfisa, a development aided by a character who transitions from a crane into a girl named Vasilisa. This transformative ally helps Emelya navigate the path to winning the princesss heart, weaving humor, wonder, and romance into the film’s core narrative.
The director behind this adaptation is Alexander Voitinsky, who is also known by the nickname Ghost in the film community. The cast brings together Nikita Kologrivy, recognized for his work in Major Grom: Plague Doctor, Mila Ershova, who has appeared in Difficult Teenagers, and Alina Alekseeva, known for her roles in Christmas Trees and Needles. Together they craft a vivid screen world where myth and modern cinema collide, offering audiences a blend of magical spectacle and character-driven drama.
In addition to the main storyline, the production explores themes of desire, luck, and the consequences of wishes. The pike character embodies the tension between the immediacy of wish fulfillment and the longer, sometimes harder path toward personal growth. Viewers are invited to witness how the protagonist learns responsibility, faces the repercussions of shortcuts, and discovers that true fortune often arrives through perseverance and meaningful relationships rather than simple miracles.
While the film remains faithful to the spirit of the original fairy tale, it also embraces contemporary cinematic techniques, including visual effects that give the river and magical transformations a tangible, immersive presence. The performances by the leading cast complement the narrative’s blend of humor and heart, delivering moments of lighthearted charm alongside more emotionally resonant scenes. The result is a family-friendly film that appeals to audiences seeking both entertainment and a touch of folklore-infused wonder.
Industry observers note that the strong box office and large audience turnout reflect not only the film’s appeal but also the enduring relevance of traditional tales retold for new generations. The production demonstrates how ancient narratives can be reimagined with modern production values while preserving core values and moral lessons that resonate across ages. This approach positions Under the Command of the Pike as a noteworthy entry in contemporary Russian cinema, contributing to a broader conversation about the adaptation of folklore for today’s screens and audiences.
Beyond its narrative achievements, the film’s reception highlights the importance of synchronized marketing and distribution strategies. The timing of the premiere, the accessibility of screenings, and the ability to connect with a national audience through culturally significant storytelling all played a role in driving viewer interest. In this context, Under the Command of the Pike stands as a case study in how traditional stories can be leveraged to create broad appeal while offering a fresh cinematic experience.
Overall, the project features a strong ensemble, a mythic premise, and production values that invite repeated viewing. Critics and fans alike may find themselves returning to the film to revisit the pike’s magical promises, the evolving relationship between Emelya and Anfisa, and the enchanting metamorphosis that brings Vasilisa to life. The film’s enduring popularity suggests a fresh appreciation for folklore adapted with modern storytelling craft and a renewed interest in the timeless theme of wishes, consequences, and personal growth.