Wish upon a Pike

Wish upon a Pike

Year: 1938

Runtime: 57 mins

Language: Russian

Director: Aleksandr Rou

FamilyFantasy

Adapted from four Russian folk‑tales, this early Soviet fantasy follows the simple‑minded Emelya the Fool. While fishing, he catches a talking pike that begs for its life; in gratitude the fish grants Emelya wishes that set him on a whimsical, magical journey through the world of Slavic folklore.

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Timeline & Setting – Wish upon a Pike (1938)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Wish upon a Pike (1938). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Medieval or fantasy era

The events take place in a period reminiscent of medieval Russia, characterized by monarchies, knights, and folklore. This era is known for its fairy-tale elements, such as magical creatures and royal intrigue, fitting the story's fantastical tone.

Location

Tsar's court, Yemelya's village, distant place

The story is set in a traditional Russian rural setting, featuring a Tsar's court as well as humble villages. The royal court is an imposing place marked by hierarchy and tradition, while the villages are simple and closely connected to nature. The distant place becomes a haven for Yemelya and the princess after their escape.

🏰 Royal court 🏡 Villages 🌲 Rural area

Last Updated: August 19, 2025 at 04:55

Main Characters – Wish upon a Pike (1938)

Meet the key characters of Wish upon a Pike (1938), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Yemelya

A humble and resourceful farmer's son, Yemelya is kind-hearted and clever. His ability to entertain and his willingness to help others propel the story forward, showcasing his bravery and humility.

🤴 Hero 🌾 Farmer 💡 Clever

Tsar Gorokh

The authoritative ruler who seeks a solution to entertain his princess and to find a suitable husband for her. His temperament is often ill-tempered, reflecting a traditional ruler concerned with family honor.

🤴 Tsar 👑 Authority 😠 Temper

Princess

The Tsar's daughter, known for her serious and ill-tempered nature, longs for happiness and laughter. Her transformation through Yemelya's attempts reveals her desire for joy and connection.

👸 Princess 🎭 Humor seeker 😁 Joyful

The Magic Fish

A benevolent enchanted pike capable of granting wishes, it embodies kindness and gratitude. Its role emphasizes the importance of humility and good deeds in the story.

🐟 Magical creature ✨ Wish-granter 🙏 Kindness

Last Updated: August 19, 2025 at 04:55

Major Themes – Wish upon a Pike (1938)

Explore the central themes of Wish upon a Pike (1938), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🎭 Humor & Wit

The film explores themes of humor, wit, and charm through Yemelya's ability to make the princess laugh. It highlights how humor can break social barriers and bring joy even in serious circumstances.

✨ Magic & Wishes

Magic plays a central role, represented by the enchanted pike that grants wishes. The theme underscores the idea that kindness and good fortune can transform lives, emphasizing the importance of gratitude and humility.

👪 Family & Loyalty

Yemelya's bond with his mother and his love for the princess highlight themes of family loyalty and affection. Their relationships motivate the characters' actions and provide emotional depth to the story.

Last Updated: August 19, 2025 at 04:55

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Unlock the Full Story of Wish upon a Pike

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Wish upon a Pike Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Wish upon a Pike, 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.

Wish upon a Pike Summary

Wish upon a Pike Timeline

Track the full timeline of Wish upon a Pike with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Wish upon a Pike Timeline

Wish upon a Pike Spoiler-Free Summary

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Wish upon a Pike Spoiler-Free Summary

More About Wish upon a Pike

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Wish upon a Pike: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Wish upon a Pike