The Water Witch (2019) is a Russian fantasy and science fiction film directed by Alexey Barykin. The story follows siblings Alina and Ruslan, who, along with their mother Alsu—a successful businesswoman originally from Tatarstan—travel from Moscow to the remote village of Achasary after the death of Alsu’s father. Accustomed to urban life, the children find themselves immersed in rural traditions, encountering farm animals, Muslim customs, and a language unfamiliar to them.

As they adapt to village life, Alina and Ruslan become aware of deep-seated family conflicts: their grandfather had disowned Alsu, leading to a decade-long estrangement between her and her brother, Timur. Tensions escalate within the household, but the children form a strong bond with Leysan, Timur’s new wife, offering a glimmer of hope amidst familial discord.