The Safety Match
The Safety Match

Movie spotlight

The Safety Match

1954
Movie
52 min
Russian

A man of big status disappears in a small provincial town. An old bored investigator and his young hyperactive assistant are on a trail of a bloody murderer.

Insights

IMDb7.6/10
Director: Konstantin VartsGenres: Comedy, Drama

Plot Summary

A retired actor, Vasilevsky, finds himself in a peculiar situation when his former assistant, who is now a prominent theater director, casts him in a new play. Vasilevsky, however, struggles to adapt to modern theatrical practices and his own aging ego, leading to a series of comedic and poignant moments. The film explores themes of artistic integrity, the passage of time, and the clash between generations in the world of theater.

Critical Reception

The Safety Match was well-received by critics and audiences in the Soviet Union for its witty dialogue, strong performances, and insightful look into the theatrical world. It is often praised for its blend of humor and pathos, making it a memorable piece of Soviet cinema.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its sharp and humorous screenplay.

  • Lauded for the performances of its veteran lead actors.

  • Appreciated for its touching portrayal of an artist's twilight years.

Google audience: Information not available for this title.

Fun Fact

The film is based on a play of the same name by Mikhail Zoshchenko, a prominent Soviet satirist.

AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources

My Review