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Circus is a 1936 Soviet musical drama film directed by Grigori Aleksandrov and starring Lyubov Orlova, Yevgeniya Melnikova, and Vladimir Volodin. The film follows Marion Dixon (Lyubov Orlova), a young American actress who finds herself stranded in Soviet Russia after her tour group abandons her. She is rescued by Ivan Petrovich Martinov (Vladimir Volodin), a daredevil aerial artist who works for a traveling circus. Martinov gives Dixon a job in the circus, and she quickly becomes a popular performer thanks to her singing and acting skills.

The circus is run by Medvedeva (Yevgeniya Melnikova), a stern and imposing woman who is devoted to her performers and takes great pride in her circus. However, the circus is struggling financially, and Medvedeva is forced to make difficult decisions as she tries to keep her performers employed and her circus afloat. Meanwhile, Martinov and Dixon fall in love, but their relationship is complicated by Martinov's dangerous profession and the jealousy of another performer, Elka (Olga Androvskaya).

The film is notable for its use of music and dance. Orlova, a famous Soviet actress and singer, performs several songs in the film, including "The Blue Shawl" and "Carnival". The film also features several dance sequences, including a lively folk dance and a balletic aerial sequence.

In addition to its music and dance, Circus is also notable for its depiction of Soviet life. The film was made during Stalin's regime, and it reflects the Soviet government's emphasis on collectivism and the importance of the state over the individual. Medvedeva is portrayed as a strong, capable leader who prioritizes the welfare of the circus over her own personal desires. The film also emphasizes the importance of hard work and collective effort, as the performers work together to keep the circus running despite financial struggles.

Circus was a commercial and critical success upon its release, both in the Soviet Union and internationally. The film was praised for its performances, music, and cinematography, and it was awarded the Grand Prix at the 1937 Paris World Exhibition. The film's popularity helped to make Orlova an international star, and it remains one of the most beloved Soviet films of all time.

Overall, Circus is a charming and entertaining film that offers a glimpse into Soviet life during the 1930s. Its music and dance sequences are delightful, and the film's themes of collective effort and sacrifice are timeless.

Circus is a 1936 music movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 34 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6.