Karuza
Каруза
Synopsis
Based on true events, this tale follows the extraordinary bond between a boy and his dog in besieged Leningrad. In 1939, young Mitya finds joy in the companionship of his loyal dog, Karuza. Their idyllic life is shattered when World War II erupts, plunging Leningrad into a brutal siege where starvation looms over its residents. As despair grips the city, Karuza with her keen instincts and unwavering courage ventures into the perilous streets to scavenge for food. Inspired by Karuza’s remarkable bravery, Mitya decides to join her. Together, they are forging a path through despair and hopelessness. However, their efforts take a dangerous turn when they are discovered by German soldiers during one fateful outing.
Top Cast
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Svetlana Ivanova
Ivan Kolesnikov
Mark‑Malik Murashkin
Mitya / Vitya
Mariya Abramova
Toma
Aleksandr Baluev
Konstantin Adaev
Yuri Stepanov
Svetlana Smirnova-Martsinkevich
Sergey Migitsko
Anna Sokolovich
Valya
Andrey Kharybin
Dean Mayer
Andrey Shchyotkin
Hans
Daria Delberg
Sofia Delberg
Elisey Chuchilin
Young Mitya
Taisiya Abramova
Oleg Farafonov
Young Sergey
Release History & Theatrical Window
Moscow International Film Festival
Festival / Special Debut
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Ivan Kharatyan
- Screenplay & Story
- Artem Kavaleryan, Andrey Zhitkov
- Original Score
- Polina Tiunel
- Original Title
- Каруза
- Country of Origin
- Russia
- Spoken Languages
- Russian
- Runtime
- 1h 36m
- Production Studios
- Mirfilm, Cinema Foundation of Russia
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Ivan Kharatyan
Artem Kavaleryan, Andrey Zhitkov
Polina Tiunel
Eduard Melnikov
Mikhail Klimov
Rafael Minasbekyan, Sergey Bagirov
Department Leadership Roster
Ivan Kharatyan
Director
Andrey Zhitkov
Writer
Eduard Melnikov
Director of Photography
Polina Tiunel
Original Music Composer
Mikhail Klimov
Editor
Natalya Navoenko
Production Design
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for Karuza.
Featured In Curated Collections
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War: World War II
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Frequently Asked Questions About Karuza
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is Karuza about?
Based on true events, this tale follows the extraordinary bond between a boy and his dog in besieged Leningrad. In 1939, young Mitya finds joy in the companionship of his loyal dog, Karuza. Their idyllic life is shattered when World War II erupts, plunging Leningrad into a brutal siege where starvation looms over its residents. As despair grips the city, Karuza with her keen instincts and unwavering courage ventures into the perilous streets to scavenge for food. Inspired by Karuza’s remarkable bravery, Mitya decides to join her. Together, they are forging a path through despair and hopelessness. However, their efforts take a dangerous turn when they are discovered by German soldiers during one fateful outing.
Who directed Karuza?
Karuza was directed by Ivan Kharatyan.
Who stars in Karuza?
The principal cast of Karuza includes Svetlana Ivanova, Ivan Kolesnikov, Mark‑Malik Murashkin, Mariya Abramova, Aleksandr Baluev.
When was Karuza released and how long is it?
Karuza was released in 2025 with a total runtime of 1h 36m.
Who composed the musical score for Karuza?
The original motion picture soundtrack for Karuza was composed by Polina Tiunel.