Wolga-Wolga (1928)

The story is set in the 17th century, in the southern part of the Russian Tsardom. Stepan, known as “Stenka,” Razin is a proud rebel who stands in strong opposition to the tsar in distant Moscow. To secure greater independence from the central government for his countrymen in the south, Razin forms an alliance with the Shah of neighboring Persia. He accompanies the ruler to his realm and soon becomes caught up in court intrigues. The Shah’s governor commits treason in order to get rid of Razin, forcing the Don Cossack to flee from the governor’s henchmen. While on the run, Stenka falls in love with Princess Zaineb, who has secretly joined the journey. Back home, his own men plot to rebel against him and demand that Razin kill Zaineb, whom they regard as a traitor or spy. In order to regain their respect and avert a mutiny, Stenka Razin reluctantly stabs Zaineb to death. Later, he himself falls victim to the treachery of a rival and dies aboard his burning ship.