Crooks

The film follows a group of former criminals who, after their release from prison, attempt to reintegrate into society. They struggle with the stigma of their past and the challenges of finding legitimate work, leading to difficult moral choices and confrontations. The narrative explores themes of redemption, societal prejudice, and the enduring bonds of friendship forged in adversity.

Crooks (also known as "Ulysses") was a moderately successful Soviet film that offered a gritty portrayal of post-imprisonment life. While it garnered some attention for its realistic depiction of social issues and strong performances, it was not a major critical sensation on the international stage. Audience reception was generally positive within the Soviet Union, appreciating its departure from more idealistic Soviet cinema.

• Praised for its realistic portrayal of the struggles faced by ex-convicts.
• Appreciated for the performances of the lead actors, particularly their nuanced depiction of complex characters.
• Noted for its examination of societal attitudes towards former prisoners and the difficulty of true rehabilitation.

Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this specific Soviet-era film is not readily available in public databases.

The film is also known by the title "Ulysses" and was adapted from the novel "The Fifteen-Year-Old Captain" by Jules Verne, though it deviates significantly from the original adventure story, focusing instead on a contemporary social drama.