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Vera Alentova,Star of “Moscow Does Not Believe in Tears,” Dies at 83
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A celebrated figure in Soviet and Russian cinema,Vera Alentova,best known for her leading role in the Academy Award-winning film “Moscow Does Not Believe in Tears,” has died at the age of 83. the actress passed away just hours after being hospitalized following the funeral of fellow actor Anatoly Lobotsky at the Mayakovsky Theater, where she reportedly fell ill during the ceremony.
According to reports from the mash telegram channel, Alentova had been experiencing worsening hypertension in recent months. Her death marks the loss of a true icon of Russian film and a generation of celebrated artists.
A Career Defined by “Moscow Does Not Believe in Tears”
Alentova’s most enduring legacy is undoubtedly her performance in “Moscow Does Not Believe in Tears,” a 1979 Soviet feature film that resonated deeply with audiences. The film became a cultural phenomenon, drawing approximately 90 million viewers in the USSR in 1980 alone. Its critical acclaim extended internationally, culminating in an Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film in 1981.
The film’s success cemented Alentova’s status as a leading lady and a symbol of strength and resilience for Soviet women. it explored themes of love, ambition, and the challenges faced by women navigating a changing society.
From Early Life to Artistic Recognition
Born into a family of actors – Valentin mikhailovich Bykov and Irina Nikolaevna Alentova – Alentova’s passion for the stage was evident from a young age. Tragedy struck early in her life when her father died when she was only four years old, prompting her mother to relocate to Ukraine.
In 1961,Alentova moved to Moscow and enrolled at the studio school of the Moscow Art Theater.It was there she met and married her fellow student, Vladimir Menshov, who woudl later become a renowned director himself, tragically passing away due to complications from COVID-19. She graduated in 1965 and joined the Moscow Theater “A.S.Pushkin,” where she continued to hone her craft. Their daughter, Julia, was born in 1969.
A Legacy of Awards and Accolades
Throughout her illustrious career, Alentova received numerous accolades recognizing her contributions to the arts. These include:
- State Prize of the USSR (1981) for “Moscow Does Not believe in Tears”
- Brussels International film Festival Saint-Michel Award for Best Actress (1981) for “Moscow Does Not Believe in Tears”
- Deserved Artist of the RSFSR (1982)
- State Prize of the “Vassilievi brothers” (1986) for “Time of Desires”
- Peopel’s Artist of Russia (1992)
- Order of Friendship (2001)
These awards reflect not only her talent but also the profound impact she had on the cultural landscape of Russia and beyond.
Vera Alent
