Metal Maniac

A former military explosives expert, now working as a welder in a provincial town, discovers a hidden talent for creating elaborate metal sculptures. His life takes a dangerous turn when his unique art draws the attention of local criminals who see his skills as a means to their own illicit ends. He must navigate a perilous path, balancing his creative passion with the harsh realities of his environment and the escalating threats.

Metal Maniac received mixed to positive reviews, with many critics praising Balabanov's distinctive visual style and Puskepalis's compelling performance. However, some found the narrative to be somewhat disjointed, while others felt the film's dark themes and abrupt ending were divisive.

• Praised for its stark visual aesthetic and atmospheric tension.

• Sergey Puskepalis delivers a powerful, understated performance.

• Some viewers found the plot progression slow and the conclusion unsatisfying.

Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this film is not readily available or is limited.

The film was one of Alexey Balabanov's final works before his death in 2013, and it is often seen as a reflection of his mature directorial style.