The Lord of the Ringsfrom JRR Tolkienis widely known for his film trilogy directed by Peter Jackson. But did you know that, before Jackson won 17 Oscars for his adaptation, a Russian version of the story had already been released? Yes, the Soviet Union also tried its luck in turning Tolkien’s masterpiece into a film, with… curious results. Get ready to discover the incredible story of Khraniteli.
The Lost Russian Version: Khraniteli
Long before Peter Jackson to impress us with its epic battles and stunning landscapes, Soviet television in 1991 aired its own adaptation of The Fellowship of the Ringcall Khraniteli (The Guardians). Filmed by Leningrad TV (currently 5TV), this version fell into oblivion, becoming almost an urban legend among fans of The Lord of the Rings. Many even doubted its existence until, in 2021, the production resurfaced on YouTube, to the delight of the curious and adventurous.
The Lord of the Rings, But Soviet Version
If you’re expecting something like Peter Jacksonwith cutting-edge special effects and fantastic scenery, well… it’s better to lower your expectations a little. Filmed at a time of great instability in the Soviet Union, Khraniteli is, let’s say, modest. With rudimentary sets and limited special effects, the adaptation reflects the historical moment of a country in collapse. According to Russian artist Irina Nazarova, who attended the premiere in 1991, the production was “a symbol of a country in ruins”, with costumes and acting far below expectations.
Tolkien’s First Translation into Russian
The Lord of the Rings it was only translated into Russian in 1982, by Kistyakovsky and Muravyov. The Soviet version of The Fellowship of the Ring was based precisely on this translation. Despite technical and budgetary difficulties, the adaptation tried to remain faithful to Tolkien’s spirit, to the point of including characters that the Tolkien trilogy Peter Jackson left out, like the mysterious Tom Bombadilthe being immune to the powers of the One Ring.
Tom Bombadil: Finally on Screen!
The fans of JRR Tolkien who were disappointed by the lack of Tom Bombadil in the films of Peter Jackson have a little reason to celebrate. The Russian version, with all its rudimentary effects and tight budgets, managed to include the eccentric character. Bombadil, who is essentially immune to the Ring’s evil power, appears in this Soviet adaptation, a true gift for the most purists.
A Country in Collapse, A Peculiar Production
The film was made at a complicated time: the Soviet Union was literally falling apart. Resources were limited, technology was far from what Peter Jackson would use it a decade later, and, frankly, the production suffered under the circumstances. Nazarova, who witnessed the premiere, asks for mercy for the team who worked on the film: “Given the circumstances of the time, the effort must be recognized.”
Andrei Romanov and the Rock Soundtrack
If the special effects don’t impress you, the soundtrack might be a surprise. The music was composed by Andrey Romanovfrom the rock band Akvariumwhich brought an unexpected musical touch to the adventure. While Howard Shore would win an Oscar for scoring the version of Peter JacksonRomanov ensured that the Soviet version had its own musical charm, even if it took audiences 30 years to rediscover it.
The Hobbit Also Had His Turn
If you think that Khraniteli was the only Soviet incursion into the world of Tolkienthink again! In 1985, the same Leningrad TV produced a version of The Hobbittitled The Fantastic Journey of Mr Bilbo Baggins, the Hobbit. And, in 1991, they even tried to animate an adaptation of the book with the title The Treasure Under the Mountainbut the project was never completed — only six minutes of animation survive.
The Renaissance of Khraniteli on YouTube
What appeared to be an urban legend resurfaced in 2021, when the Soviet version of The Lord of the Rings was made available on YouTube. Despite being only in Russian, the film quickly became a hit among Tolkien’s most curious and nostalgic fans. After all, who wouldn’t want to see the version of The Fellowship of the Ring that time almost forgot?
Peter Jackson Wasn’t the First, But He Was the Best
Of course, no fan of The Lord of the Rings will confuse Khraniteli with the masterpieces of Peter Jackson. But it is undeniable that the Soviet version has its place in the history of film adaptations. JRR Tolkien. If she is a bit peculiar? Undoubtedly. Is it worth seeing? Well, that’s up to the adventurers who are willing to take on an unexpected cinematic journey.
Summary for those in a hurry:
- Before Peter Jacksonthe Soviet Union made its own version of The Lord of the Rings in 1991, called Khraniteli.
- Production was done with few resources and reflects the collapse of the Soviet Union.
- The film resurfaced in 2021 on YouTubewhere he gained the curiosity of fans.
- The Russian version included Tom Bombadila character absent from Jackson’s adaptations.
- Andrey Romanovby the rock band Akvarium, composed the soundtrack for the Soviet adaptation.
- Leningrad TV also adapted The Hobbit in 1985, but its 1991 animation was never completed.
Source: Atrevida

Earl Johnson is a music writer at Gossipify, known for his in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the industry. A graduate of USC with a degree in Music, he brings years of experience and passion to his writing. He covers the latest releases and trends, always on the lookout for the next big thing in music.