Cinema

Soviet films are an integral part of film history and the Mosfilm studio was at the heart of many Soviet classic films as it is responsible for both artistic and mainstream productions. Russian filmmakers have been known as some of the best in the world, although studios have been much quieter as of late.

There are over 130 cinemas in Moscow and the surrounding area. Tickets cost from 50 to 300 Rubles (cheaper on the weekdays in the morning, more expensive in the evening and on the weekends). Some cinemas offer student discounts (ISIC card). Most cinemas show movies in original language with subtitles, but sometimes the movies are dubbed.

The Museum of Cinema is a favorite of Moscow's intellectuals and students, and tends to show unique films. Prices: 20-100 R.

There are two cinemas where you can always see movies in English with Russian translation either through headphones or subtitles. They are America-Cinema and Dome Cinema. Both are located in popular, but expensive hotels (SAS Radisson, and Olympic Penta).

35 MM Cinema plays interesting movies, from european, to asian, to american, and sometimes alternative movies usually in original language with russian subtitles. Prices: 50R - 450R.

Illuzion specializes in old Russian, Soviet, and foreign movies. Sometimes, it is the only place where you can see productions of Soviet filmmakers of 20s or 30s. Prices: 20-60 R.

Nightclubs

Russians are known for their ability to drink and dance deep into the night and into the next day. There is a plethora of clubs, pubs, and elegant wine bars to facilitate any Muscovite's taste.

Tverskaya Street, also known as Gorky is one of the best known streets to find an active nightlife crowd. The southern end of Tverskaya Street near the Manege Square and Red Square also has many expensive and luxurious bars and restaurants and is considered to be a playground for New Russians and celebrities.

Fabrique is a trendy club that can have tough "Face Control" (Russia's way of letting only the chosen into the club). Mid-priced drinks, and a hot young vibe make this a consistent hot spot. Foreigners are actually more likely to get in and mingle with the sexy Russians.

This wildly popular weekend bar, Tema Bar, is packed with expats. Located near Chistye Prudy Boulevard, it boasts a long cocktail list and lots of dancing.

Propaganda is a great alternative bar with lots of cheap drinks. Great music, a hip and funky crowd, as well as relatively relaxed door control makes this a consistently fun place to go.

16 Tons is believed to be the hottest live music venue in the capital, attracting top local and foreign bands, who almost always play to a packed house. The brassy English pub-restaurant downstairs has an excellent house-brewed bitter.

12 Volts is one of the best of Moscow's gay and lesbian clubs. It offers good food and cheap drinks, plus consultation service for individuals facing homosexual issues. This is one of the few hangouts that attracts lesbians as well as gay men.