Petrov's Flu

In a bleak, post-Soviet Russia gripped by an epidemic of the 'flu,' a down-on-his-luck cartoonist named Petrov embarks on a hallucinatory, feverish journey through his past, present, and surreal alternate realities. As his mind deteriorates, he confronts memories of his estranged wife, his former lover, and the lingering traumas of his life. The film blurs the lines between reality and delusion, depicting a fragmented society struggling with its identity and its demons.

Petrov's Flu garnered significant attention for its ambitious and often disorienting cinematic vision, earning praise for its visual style and thematic depth. Critics were divided on its length and narrative coherence, with some finding its surrealism profound and others deeming it overwhelming. Despite the mixed reception, it was recognized for its artistic merit and bold exploration of complex psychological and societal themes.

• Praised for its bold, hallucinatory visuals and ambitious surrealism.
• Noted for its unflinching portrayal of post-Soviet malaise and personal trauma.
• Criticized by some for its challenging length and often opaque narrative structure.

Google audience: Audience reviews highlight the film's striking visual style and its unique, mind-bending narrative. Many found it to be a thought-provoking, albeit demanding, cinematic experience that effectively captures a sense of disorientation and existential dread. Some viewers felt the film was overly long and difficult to follow at times.

Nominated for the Palme d'Or at the 2021 Cannes Film Festival.

Director Kirill Serebrennikov was reportedly under house arrest during parts of the film's production and post-production, communicating with his crew remotely.