Watch Jolly Fellows

Set against the backdrop of the Soviet Union, Jolly Fellows is a musical comedy that tells the story of a group of street musicians who dream of making it big. The film focuses on the lives of two such performers, the dashing and charismatic tramp Lyolik and the beautiful violinist Anyuta, as they struggle to survive and thrive in the tough streets of Moscow.

Lyolik is a cheerful and carefree vagabond who sings and dances his way through life, relying on his charm and quick wit to get by. Anyuta, on the other hand, is a serious and talented musician who dreams of playing in a prestigious orchestra. Despite their differences in temperament and aspirations, Lyolik and Anyuta soon find themselves drawn to each other, and their budding romance adds a layer of warmth and humor to the film.

As the film progresses, we see Lyolik and Anyuta join forces with a group of fellow street musicians, including the bumbling accordion player Tikhon and the sultry singer Yashka, as they try to make their mark on the music scene. Together, the group travels to a small town where they are hired to perform at a local festival.

However, their dreams of success are complicated by a group of high-society snobs who look down on their unsophisticated music and dismiss them as mere entertainers. The snobs are led by the wealthy and powerful businessman Prince Golitsyn, who is determined to squash the group's aspirations and keep them in their place.

Undeterred by these obstacles, Lyolik and his comrades continue to perform with passion and enthusiasm, winning over the hearts of the townspeople with their infectious energy and charming songs. In the end, their hard work and perseverance pay off, as they finally get the recognition and respect they deserve.

Throughout the film, director Grigori Aleksandrov showcases the vibrant and colorful culture of the Soviet Union, from the lively streets of Moscow to the rustic charm of the countryside. The musical numbers, featuring catchy tunes and energetic choreography, are a particular highlight, showcasing the talents of the film's cast and leaving audiences tapping their toes and humming along.

At its core, Jolly Fellows is a celebration of the power of music to bring people together, and of the indomitable spirit of those who pursue their dreams with passion and determination. With its unforgettable characters, charming performances, and rousing musical numbers, it remains a beloved classic of Soviet cinema to this day.

Jolly Fellows is a 1934 music movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 36 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.9.