The Russia House: Living or Dead?

About The Russia House

The Russia House, directed by Fred Schepisi and released in 1990, is a spy thriller that stands out for its nuanced portrayal of the Cold War and its humanizing depiction of Soviet citizens. Based on the novel by John le Carré, the film stars Sean Connery as a British publisher who gets embroiled in a plot to smuggle a manuscript out of the Soviet Union with the help of a Russian woman played by Michelle Pfeiffer.

The film's strengths lie in its attention to detail and its refusal to resort to simplistic stereotypes. The Russia House presents a complex picture of the Soviet Union, showing both its oppressive aspects and the resilience of its people. The film also explores the theme of communication, as the characters struggle to bridge the gap between their different cultures and ideologies.

Connery and Pfeiffer deliver strong performances, and the supporting cast includes notable actors such as Roy Scheider and James Fox. The film's score, composed by Jerry Goldsmith, adds to the atmosphere of tension and intrigue.

Overall, The Russia House is a thoughtful and engaging thriller that deserves more recognition than it has received. As Rolling Stone magazine noted in its review at the time, "The Russia House is a rare breed of spy movie that values character over action, and intelligence over spectacle."