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Practical Joke
Розыгрыш
1977 96 min Soviet Union 16+
★7.4
Family, Romance, Drama
Director: Vladimir Menshov
Trailers
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Description
Secondary school students play a 'practical joke' on their teacher: on midterms day, they claim she told them the wrong date. She almost believes them, but an honest classmate ruins their fun... and now they want revenge.
Starring
Yevgeniya Khanayeva
Actor
Natalya Fateeva
Actor
Zinoviy Gerdt
Actor
Key opinion
Vladimir Menshov's debut is widely regarded as a definitive Soviet school drama that masterfully captures the intergenerational conflict and moral complexities of adolescence. While some viewers debate its ideological conclusions, it remains a beloved, thought-provoking film characterized by exceptional acting and a lasting emotional resonance.
| Acting | Evgenia Khanaeva delivers a definitive, nuanced performance as Maria Vasilievna, balancing stern discipline with deep devotion. | |
| Acting | Dmitry Kharatyan’s debut as Igor Grushko provides a charismatic and memorable anchor for the film’s idealistic themes. | |
| Score | The musical numbers, particularly the iconic songs, are deeply embedded in the film's identity and effectively heighten its emotional impact. | |
| Theme | The film is lauded for its thematic depth in exploring the transition to adulthood and the moral clashes between idealism and calculation. | |
| Originality | Opinions on the film's realism are divided: some praise its authentic, relatable portrayal of Soviet school life, while others view its character dynamics and ideological conclusions as stylized, fairy-tale, or overly theatrical. |