Old Man Khottabych
A boy named Volka discovers an ancient vessel on the bottom of a river. When he opens it, a genie emerges from there. He calls himself Hassan Abdurrahman ibn Khottab, or in Russian style Khottabych. Grateful Khottabych is ready to fulfill any of Volka's wishes. But it appears that Volka should use the powers of the genie carefully, for they can have undesirable results.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young boy named Volka accidentally releases an ancient genie, Old Man Khottabych, from a clay jug. Khottabych, still accustomed to the ways of ancient Arabia, tries to help Volka with his modern-day problems using magic, leading to chaotic and humorous situations. Volka must then try to help Khottabych adapt to the Soviet era and navigate the complexities of friendship and responsibility.
Critical Reception
Critically acclaimed in the Soviet Union, 'Old Man Khottabych' was a beloved family film that resonated with audiences for its humor, fantasy elements, and gentle exploration of cultural differences. It is remembered as a classic of Soviet cinema for children.
What Reviewers Say
- A charming and whimsical fantasy film that skillfully blends humor with cultural commentary.
- Praised for its imaginative premise and the endearing portrayal of the genie adapting to a new world.
- Considered a heartwarming classic for Soviet children's cinema, highlighting themes of friendship and understanding.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews specifically for this Soviet-era film is not readily available.
Fun Fact
The film is based on a 19th-century novel of the same name by Russian writer Leonid Soboleva, which was one of the first Soviet works to feature a genie character.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources