Year: 1990
Runtime: 85 mins
Language: Russian
Director: Aleksandr Muratov
When a mafia group abducts the young son of an investigator who has uncovered a series of large‑scale thefts at a local shoe factory, he enlists the aid of three longtime friends, two police officers and a newspaper reporter. Together they race against time to free his child while also bringing the criminal operation to justice.
Get a spoiler-free look at The Criminal Quartet (1990) with a clear plot overview that covers the setting, main characters, and story premise—without revealing key twists or the ending. Perfect for deciding if this film is your next watch.
In a cramped industrial city where the clatter of factories masks deeper secrets, an unsettling investigation uncovers a tangled web of fraud hidden behind the walls of a local shoe plant. The discovery sets off a chain of pressure that reaches into the personal lives of those who dared to look too closely, turning ordinary streets into a pressure‑cooked backdrop for a desperate rescue.
When his eight‑year‑old son is seized, the shaken investigator Semen Portnov turns to the only people he trusts completely—friends forged in the harsh halls of an orphanage and tempered by years of shared hardship. He calls on the steady, methodical mind of Marat Mukhanov, a police officer whose sense of duty is matched only by his loyalty to old comrades. Beside him stands Pyotr Saraev, another officer whose resolve is hardened by countless nights on the beat, while Nikolai Larin, a journalist with a knack for digging through layers of deception, adds the sharp edge of public scrutiny.
Their reunion is less a reunion than a convergence of purpose; each brings a distinct skill that, together, forms a fragile shield against the looming threat. The bond among the quartet pulses with a mix of nervous humor and solemn determination, a reminder that years apart have not eroded the trust forged in their shared past. As the clock ticks, the atmosphere tightens, hinting at a race against time where every second could tip the balance between loss and salvation.
The film’s tone walks a tightrope between gritty thriller and intimate drama, drawing viewers into a world where loyalty is tested, ordinary professions become weapons of hope, and the simple promise to protect a child fuels an unyielding pursuit of justice.
Last Updated: December 03, 2025 at 23:39
Discover curated groups of movies connected by mood, themes, and story style. Browse collections built around emotion, atmosphere, and narrative focus to easily find films that match what you feel like watching right now.
Stories where a ticking clock forces desperate, swift action to avert disaster.If you enjoyed the desperate race against the clock in The Criminal Quartet, you'll find similar tension in these movies. This list features high-stakes thrillers and action films where a kidnapping or imminent threat forces a rapid, strategic response against a powerful antagonist, all driven by a singular, urgent goal.
The narrative pattern is linear and goal-oriented, with a clear inciting incident that establishes a deadline. The story unfolds through a series of escalating challenges and set pieces as the protagonists work methodically against the clock, culminating in a final confrontation where the outcome hinges on beating the timer.
Movies are grouped here based on their shared high-intensity pacing, tense tone, and a plot structure defined by a literal or figurative countdown. They deliver a specific kind of anxiety and exhilaration, making the viewer feel the pressure along with the characters.
Films where a group of skilled allies unites for a singular, dangerous objective.For viewers who liked the camaraderie and coordinated effort of the quartet in The Criminal Quartet, this list highlights similar movies. These are crime, action, and adventure films where a group of experts—police, reporters, soldiers—pool their unique talents to overcome a formidable adversary through teamwork.
The narrative follows the formation of the team, establishing each member's distinct role and expertise. The plot then revolves around them working in concert, with their combined skills allowing them to overcome obstacles that would be insurmountable for a lone hero. The emotional core is often the loyalty and trust between the characters.
These films are connected by their focus on ensemble casts with specialized roles, a methodical approach to problem-solving, and the thematic importance of loyalty and collaboration. They offer a satisfying blend of strategic action and character-driven dynamics.
Don't stop at just watching — explore The Criminal Quartet in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what The Criminal Quartet is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.
Read a complete plot summary of The Criminal Quartet, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.
Track the full timeline of The Criminal Quartet with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.
Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape The Criminal Quartet. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.
Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about The Criminal Quartet: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.
Discover movies like The Criminal Quartet that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.
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