Verdict:
This movie from the post-Soviet era, but before the full impact of Western techniques on the film industry, stands out for its acting. Featuring notable Russian actors, including Smoktunovskiy as the antagonist, the performances are compelling, even in monologues. Supported by good writing, the film includes genuinely humorous moments, thanks to well-delivered lines.
The movie is named “Genius” and the plot follows our intelligent protagonist’s schemes, which do indeed appear clever despite some technical details being conveniently unexplained. The story unfolds through interconnected chapters of the protagonist’s adventures and misadventures.
The music is noteworthy, particularly the main theme, which remains memorable years after watching the film. While much of the soundtrack aligns with typical 80s/90s film techno, the main song, featuring early 20th-century lyrics and sung by the lead actor, stands out.
However, the movie’s relevance may be limited without an understanding of the post-Soviet period’s context and issues. Towards the end, the film takes on a somewhat campy tone as it attempts to delve into action, which feels out of place with the film’s intelligence. Despite this, the film remains engaging, especially for those familiar with the 90s and the cultural background.