Interpretations of the idea of space exploration in Soviet films
Publication Title:
Interpretations of the idea of space exploration in Soviet films
Abstract:
The article examines the problem of interpreting the idea of space exploration in Soviet feature films. The relevance of this study stems from the need to examine the interpretations of space conquest characteristic of Soviet culture in order to stimulate contemporary space developments by fostering a positive image of space expansion, as well as to investigate more thoroughly the correlation between the projects of Russian cosmism and Russian communism. The materials for analysis are the films Cosmic Voyage (1936), Flight to the Moon (1953), and Taming of Fire (1972). The analysis employs methods of discourse analysis, semiotic analysis, the cultural-historical method, and comparative analysis. The article demonstrates how the “transformative” motives of cosmism are assimilated by Soviet culture. The intersection of cosmist and Soviet discourse constitutes a phenomenon termed “Soviet cosmism”. The interpretations of space exploration in these films illustrate this phenomenon and the tendency to identify cosmic achievements with the victory of communism. As markers of this identification, the article examines symbols and ideologically significant names and actions; the visualization of space encompassing “Soviet” and “cosmic” structures; appeals to the “Promethean” motif of daring, obsession, and the value of liberation; and themes of unity and dignity of the Soviet people, as well as the superiority of the USSR over the United States. These interpretations are regarded as embodiments of “Soviet cosmism” due to their connection with the following ideas: the inseparability of everyday life from the global project; the collective resolution of a universally significant task; fraternal relations among the “new people”; the regulation of natural phenomena and the concept of “a different nature”; the transformative potential of science and technology; and a project-oriented, practical focus. The continuity between Russian cosmism and Soviet discourse is personified by the figure of K.E. Tsiolkovsky. The interpretations under study bear the imprint of the historical period in which the films were produced.
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Key words:
Soviet feature cinema, semiosis of space in the USSR, Russian cosmism, “Soviet cosmism”, Russian communism, control of nature
The DOI index:
10.17588/2076-9210.2026.2.082-097
Publication file:
