Watch The Meeting Place Cannot Be Changed

The Meeting Place Cannot Be Changed is a Soviet-era crime drama from 1979 directed by Stanislav Govorukhin, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Aleksandr Gelman. The film takes place in post-World War II Moscow and follows the story of a group of detectives, led by the main character, Captain Gleb Zheglov (played by Vladimir Vysotsky), as they try to track down and capture a gang of notorious bank robbers.

The movie opens with a thrilling train heist, pulled off by the bank robbers, who are led by one-handed thief and expert counterfeiter, Duke (played by Vladimir Konkin). They successfully steal a large sum of money, but their luck runs out when they are ambushed and almost captured by a group of railway guards. In the resulting chaos, one of the robbers is killed, and Duke is forced to cut off his hand to escape capture.

As the police investigate the robbery, they soon realize that the gang is planning to strike again. Captain Zheglov is put in charge of the case and quickly becomes obsessed with apprehending Duke and his accomplices. He is aided by his loyal partner, Korzhik (played by Zinovi Gerdt), and a team of detectives, who use every available means to track down the thieves, including wiretapping phones, tracing license plates, and even going undercover.

As the investigation heats up, Zheglov becomes increasingly frustrated and desperate. His obsession with catching Duke puts a strain on his personal life, as he neglects his wife and son. Meanwhile, Duke and his gang continue to elude the police, pulling off daring heists and leaving behind few clues. Zheglov knows that time is running out and that the only way to catch Duke is to trap him at his own game.

The movie is famous for its exceptional performances, particularly by Vladimir Vysotsky, who gives a powerful and nuanced portrayal of Zheglov. Vysotsky, who was known as a singer and songwriter before becoming an actor, infuses the character with a sense of brooding intensity and moral ambiguity. He is a flawed hero who will stop at nothing to achieve his goal, even if it means breaking the law or sacrificing his own happiness.

The film is also notable for its depiction of post-war Moscow. The city is portrayed as a dark and gritty place, full of corrupt officials, shady characters, and black market deals. The movie was shot in many of the actual locations where the events took place, giving it a sense of authenticity and realism. The costumes and set design are also impeccable, capturing the feel of the era and enhancing the overall atmosphere of the film.

The Meeting Place Cannot Be Changed is a classic of Soviet cinema, and it has had a lasting impact on Russian culture. Its themes of law and order, justice and revenge, and loyalty and betrayal continue to resonate with audiences. The movie remains a must-see for fans of crime dramas and Russian cinema alike, and it stands as a testament to the enduring power of great storytelling.