If You Want To Be Happy (1974) movie backdrop
If You Want To Be Happy (1974) movie poster
197468 minDrama

If You Want To Be Happy

If You Want To Be Happy Movie Hit or Flop?

FLOP

Verdict:If You Want To Be Happy is a confirmed FLOP based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.

With a rating of 6.0/10, it has delivered a mixed experience for fans of the Drama genre.

Is If You Want To Be Happy Worth Watching?

Answer: Yes, If You Want To Be Happy is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies.

It features a runtime of 68 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.

6.01 votes
68Minutes
1974Release Year
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If You Want To Be Happy Review

Last updated: January 11, 2026

🎬 The Premise

Released in 1974, If You Want To Be Happy enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on Andrei and Tanya love each other, which is why frequent partings are so difficult for them: Andrei is a test pilot, and Tanya works on television, and both are constantly on business trips. Under the direction of Nikolai Gubenko, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.

🎭 Cast & Performance

The film is anchored by performances from Zhanna Bolotova, Nikolai Gubenko, Pauls Butkevics. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.

🎥 Technical Mastery & Style

From a technical standpoint, If You Want To Be Happy offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.

🌍 Social Impact & Cultural Context

Beyond the narrative, If You Want To Be Happy resonates with current cultural themes in the Drama space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.

📺 Where to Watch & Streaming Info

As of January 2026, If You Want To Be Happy is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US, UK, and India, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release. Don't miss the high-definition experience provided by premium large format (PLF) screenings.

📖 Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown

The plot of If You Want To Be Happy centers on a unique premise within the Drama landscape. Andrei and Tanya love each other, which is why frequent partings are so difficult for them: Andrei is a test pilot, and Tanya works on television, and both are constantly on business trips. They have two sons — twins. For eight years of marriage, they cannot count a total of three when they were together. And yet they are happy... The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1974 cinema will find fairly predictable.

💡 Ending Explained & Sequel Potential

The ending of If You Want To Be Happy has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a If You Want To Be Happy sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.

📝 Final Editorial Verdict

Final verdict for If You Want To Be Happy (1974): with an audience rating of 6/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Drama cinema who appreciate attention to detail.

Parents Guide & Age Rating

Not Rated
If You Want To Be Happy has not been officially rated yet.

Final Verdict

Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6/10, and global collection metrics, If You Want To Be Happy stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1974 cinematic year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is If You Want To Be Happy movie hit or flop?

If You Want To Be Happy has received mixed reviews with a 6/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.

Is If You Want To Be Happy worth watching?

If You Want To Be Happy is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama movies, but read reviews first.

What genre is If You Want To Be Happy?

If You Want To Be Happy is a Drama movie that Andrei and Tanya love each other, which is why frequent partings are so difficult for them: Andrei is a test pilot, and Tanya works on television, and...

Explore More Verdicts

Expert Consensus
Live Rating
MOVIEMX
★ 6.0
If You Want To Be Happy
<a href="https://moviemx.in/review/if-you-want-to-be-happy-531779" target="_blank" style="text-decoration:none;"><div style="background:#121212;border:1px solid #f5c518;border-radius:12px;padding:15px;width:180px;text-align:center;font-family:sans-serif;box-shadow:0 10px 20px rgba(0,0,0,0.3);"><div style="color:#f5c518;font-size:10px;font-weight:900;letter-spacing:2px;">MOVIEMX</div><div style="color:white;font-size:28px;font-weight:900;margin:8px 0;">★ 6.0</div><div style="color:#888;font-size:12px;font-weight:500;">If You Want To Be Happy</div></div></a>

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People Also Ask (FAQs)

Is If You Want To Be Happy movie hit or flop?

If You Want To Be Happy has received mixed reviews with a 6/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.

Is If You Want To Be Happy worth watching?

If You Want To Be Happy is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama movies, but read reviews first.

What genre is If You Want To Be Happy?

If You Want To Be Happy is a Drama movie that Andrei and Tanya love each other, which is why frequent partings are so difficult for them: Andrei is a test pilot, and Tanya works on television, and...

Is If You Want To Be Happy family friendly?

If You Want To Be Happy is a Drama movie. Please check the content rating before watching with family.

Where can I watch If You Want To Be Happy?

You can find streaming options and availability for If You Want To Be Happy on popular platforms. Check movieMx for the latest updates and reviews.

Who is the main cast of If You Want To Be Happy?

If You Want To Be Happy features a talented cast. Check our "Top Cast" section to see the full list of actors and the characters they play in this film.

How long is the movie If You Want To Be Happy?

The runtime and duration of If You Want To Be Happy are available in the movie details section. It's a gripping story that keeps you engaged from start to finish.

Critic Reviews

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