The Black Hen, or Living Underground

Set in a St. Petersburg boarding school, The Black Hen, or Living Underground follows the story of ten-year-old Alyosha, who longs for parental attention. In response to his feelings of homesickness, he creates an imaginary world inhabited by underground dwellers resembling the people around him. This magical realm allows him to embark on various adventures that reflect his emotional journey.

With a runtime of 73 minutes, this film combines drama, family, and fantasy genres, making it a distinctive offering from the era. The film is produced by Dovzhenko Film Studios, known for its contributions to Soviet cinema. The cast includes notable actors such as Vitali Sidletsky and Larysa Kadochnykova, adding depth to the storytelling.