Khovanshchina (1979): cast, story & where to watch
1979 · Film · ★ 1
Released in 1979, Khovanshchina is a music film directed by Elena Macheret, running about 172 minutes.
What it’s about. This performance, recorded live at the Bolshoi Opera in 1979, stars the great Russian bass Evgeny Nesterenko as Dosifei, the Old Believer at religious and psychological war with the new order, led by Prince Ivan Khovansky. The manipulative Khovansky is powerfully portrayed here by Alexander Vedernikov, another of the world’s greatest basses, little known outside of the Soviet Union. Marfa, one of Dosifei’s followers and a fortune teller, is sung by the legendary mezzo-soprano Irina Arkhipova in a performance of great authority and dignity. Russian opera at the Bolshoi is the genuine article and the remainder of the cast is equally impressive, from the mistrusting Prince Galitsyn of Evgeny Raikov to the clever, informing Shaklovity of Vladislav Romanovsky. The Bolshoi chorus and orchestra is conducted by Yuri Simonov.
Who’s in it. Khovanshchina stars Evgeny Nesterenko as Dosifei, Irina Arkhipova as Marfa, Evgeny Raikov as Prince Galitsyn and Vladislav Romanovsky as Shaklovity, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 1.0/10, Khovanshchina has proved divisive with audiences.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Khovanshchina page.
If you liked it. Fans of Khovanshchina tend to enjoy Whiplash, Coco, Green Book and The Legend of 1900.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Khovanshchina (1979)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for Khovanshchina change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is Khovanshchina worth watching?
- Khovanshchina holds an audience score of 1.0 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy music. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in Khovanshchina?
- Khovanshchina stars Evgeny Nesterenko, Irina Arkhipova, Evgeny Raikov, Vladislav Romanovsky and Aleksandr Vedernikov.
- When was Khovanshchina released?
- Khovanshchina was released in 1979, with a runtime of about 172 minutes.