Question 1

Why was the film not released until 1985 despite being shot in the early 1980s?

Accepted Answer

It was shot in the early 1980s but not released until 1985 due to perestroika reforms, as it took an ironic look at Soviet idealism.

Question 2

Which actor originally auditioned for Ivan Lapshin but was replaced because of a 'doomed' quality?

Accepted Answer

Nikolay Gubenko auditioned, but Andrei Boltnev was cast because director Aleksei German saw a 'doomed' quality in him, suggesting he'd be shot.

Question 3

Who played the criminal who stabs Khanin and is later killed by Ivan Lapshin?

Accepted Answer

The 'Urka' criminal was played by a real criminal, not a professional actor, to add realism.

Question 4

At which film festivals was 'My Friend Ivan Lapshin' featured?

Accepted Answer

It was featured at the Venice Film Festival (2013), Locarno International Film Festival (1986), and International Film Festival Rotterdam (1987).

Question 5

What is the setting and main conflict of the film?

Accepted Answer

Set in a Russian provincial town during Stalin's Great Purge in the mid-1930s, Ivan Lapshin, the local police head, does his job effectively.

My Friend Ivan Lapshin

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