A Soviet submarine runs aground off the coast of a small New England town during the height of the Cold War. The Russian sailors, fearing they will be attacked, attempt to disable the town's vehicles to prevent anyone from alerting the authorities. This leads to a series of escalating misunderstandings and comedic situations as the wary residents try to deal with the unexpected visitors.

The film was a critical and commercial success, lauded for its timely satire and blend of comedy and suspense. It successfully navigated the tense political climate of the era to deliver a message of understanding and shared humanity.

• Praised for its sharp wit and timely satire of Cold War paranoia.
• Applauded for its ability to balance humor with genuine tension and human drama.
• Noted for strong performances, particularly from Alan Arkin and Theodore Bikel.

Google audience: Audiences found the film to be a clever and funny take on Cold War tensions, appreciating its message of cross-cultural understanding and the excellent performances by the cast.

Nominated for 4 Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Alan Arkin. Won the Golden Globe for Best Actor – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy for Alan Arkin. Received an Oscar nomination for Best Picture.

The film was originally titled 'Mad Russians' until distributor United Artists suggested the more memorable 'The Russians Are Coming, the Russians Are Coming'.