If You Want To Be Happy Poster

If You Want To Be Happy 1974

★ 6.01 votes68 min📅 1974-11-04

In *If You Want To Be Happy (1974)*, Soviet filmmaker Nikolai Gubenko crafts a heartfelt drama about love tested by distance and duty.

Director: Nikolai Gubenko

Cast

Zhanna Bolotova
Zhanna Bolotova
Tatyana Rodionova
Nikolai Gubenko
Nikolai Gubenko
Andrei Rodionov
Pauls Butkevics
Pauls Butkevics
Arthur Clarke
Victor Soțchi-Voinicescu
Murti
Viktor Filippov
Viktor Filippov
Gusarov
Vasiliy Shukshin
Vasiliy Shukshin
Fedotov
Lidiya Fedoseyeva-Shukshina
Lidiya Fedoseyeva-Shukshina
Fedotova
Nikolai Kryukov
Nikolai Kryukov
member of the Soviet delegation on the helicopter tests
Vasyl Symchych
Vasyl Symchych
Sergei Aleksandrovich
Arnis Līcītis
Arnis Līcītis
member of the American helicopter crew

Frequently Asked Questions

What is *If You Want To Be Happy (1974)* about?

This Soviet-era drama follows Andrei and Tanya, whose marriage survives only a handful of reunions over eight years due to their demanding careers. Despite the distance and missed time with their twin sons, their love remains steadfast, offering a poignant look at resilience.

Who directed *If You Want To Be Happy*?

Nikolai Gubenko, a celebrated Soviet actor and director, helmed this touching drama, infusing it with emotional depth and realism.

Who stars in *If You Want To Be Happy*?

The film stars Zhanna Bolotova as Tanya, Nikolai Gubenko as Andrei, alongside Pauls Butkevics, Victor Soțchi-Voinicescu, and Vasiliy Shukshin in key roles.

Is *If You Want To Be Happy (1974)* worth watching?

While the IMDb rating is unrated, this understated drama offers a timeless exploration of love and sacrifice. Its themes and Gubenko's direction make it a compelling watch for fans of character-driven films.

How long is *If You Want To Be Happy*?

The film runs for 68 minutes.

If You Want To Be Happy (1974): A Love Story Forged in Separation — Full Movie Info

In *If You Want To Be Happy (1974)*, Soviet filmmaker Nikolai Gubenko crafts a heartfelt drama about love tested by distance and duty. The film follows Andrei, a dedicated test pilot, and Tanya, a television journalist, whose eight-year marriage survives only three brief moments together due to their relentless work schedules. With their twin sons left in the care of others, their bond remains unbroken despite the strain. Gubenko's sensitive direction captures the quiet resilience of love in the face of separation, blending melancholy with a tender undercurrent of hope.

Set against the backdrop of a society where professional obligations often overshadow personal life, the story explores themes of sacrifice, commitment, and the fragile balance between ambition and family. The film's intimate tone and authentic performances by Zhanna Bolotova and Gubenko himself immerse viewers in a poignant reflection on what it truly means to find happiness when duty constantly pulls you apart.