Evolution of Sexuality Representations in Soviet Cinema of the 1960s: Between Ideological Control and Audience Demand

This article examines the representation of sexuality in Soviet cinema of the 1960s within the context of the cultural changes in the Thaw period. The relevance of the study stems from the insufficient scholarly attention previously given to this subject. The novelty of the research lies in conceptualizing sexuality as an element of the artistic idiom. The article analyzes the evolution of Soviet “sex symbols”, the influence of foreign cinema, and the specific role of the comedy genre. It also identifies the mechanisms by which ideological taboos were gradually challenged and overcome.