The Death of Stalin
The Death of Stalin

The Death of Stalin

2017Movie107 minEnglish

When dictator Joseph Stalin dies, his parasitic cronies square off in a frantic power struggle to become the next Soviet leader. As they bumble, brawl and back-stab their way to the top, the question remains — just who is running the government?

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Insights

IMDb7.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes94%
Metacritic80/100
Google Users85%
Director: Armando IannucciGenres: Comedy, Drama, History

Plot Summary

Following the death of Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin in 1953, the members of the Council of Ministers scramble to seize power in the ensuing chaos. As paranoia and infighting escalate among the inner circle, their ruthless pursuit of control leads to a darkly comedic and often absurd struggle for dominance.

Critical Reception

The Death of Stalin was met with widespread critical acclaim, praised for its sharp satire, brilliant performances, and dark humor. Critics lauded Armando Iannucci's ability to balance historical events with biting political commentary, making it both hilarious and disturbingly relevant.

What Reviewers Say

  • Hilarious and bitingly satirical look at political maneuvering.
  • Stellar ensemble cast delivers sharp performances.
  • Successfully blends historical events with dark, absurd comedy.

Google audience: Audiences appreciated the film's dark humor and satirical take on historical events, finding it both entertaining and thought-provoking. Many praised the performances and the clever writing.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay at the BAFTA Awards. Won Best Comedy Film at the British Independent Film Awards.

Fun Fact

While the film is set in Moscow, it was primarily filmed in London and Paris, with many of the grand Soviet-era buildings being recreated in European locations.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

3 reviews
inspectors71

inspectors71

Oh, Lordy, how close were these characters to the real people? If you want to learn how illegitimate governments use and abuse power, this is your movie. Forget Seven Days in May, Downfall, All the President's Men, etc. This black-hearte...
Gimly

Gimly

Pretty genuinely funny, which I was not expecting. A great one for me and my roommate with a hammer and sickle tattoo to watch together. _Final rating:★★★ - I liked it. Would personally recommend you give it a go._
Mex5150

Mex5150

An interesting, but somewhat worrying docudrama look at the United Kingdom if Comrade Corbyn ever came to power.