Leto (meaning "summer" in Russian) is a 2018 musical film directed by Kirill Serebrennikov and set in Leningrad during the early 1980s. The film follows Mike Naumenko, the lead singer of a popular Soviet rock band named Zoopark, and his wife Natasha as they navigate the challenges of living under Soviet censorship laws while trying to pursue their passion for music.
One day, they meet a young musician named Viktor Tsoi, who impresses them with his talent and fresh ideas. Together with a group of friends and fellow musicians, including guitarist Yuri Kasparyan and bassist Aleksandr "Sasha" Titov, they form a new band called Kino.
The film features several musical numbers, including performances by Zoopark and Kino, as well as iconic western performers such as Lou Reed and David Bowie. The characters often break out into song or dance, creating a dreamlike, stylized atmosphere that captures the rebellious spirit of the Soviet rock scene.
As Kino gains popularity and begins to attract a devoted fanbase, tensions rise between Mike and Viktor, who disagree on their approach to music and fame. Meanwhile, the Soviet government cracks down on underground rock concerts, leading to conflicts with police and arrests of band members.
Despite the challenges, the characters persevere, using music to express their frustrations and hopes for a better future. Leto is a nostalgic tribute to the heyday of Soviet rock, capturing a brief and tumultuous moment in Russian history.