Old Men: Robbers (1972)
An old detective does not want to retire. The only way out is to prove to his boss that he still can catch criminals. The problem is that there were no crimes recently to work on. Together with his retired friend he decides to commit a perfect crime himself and then quickly solve it. Real problems start when a real criminal steals money he has stolen.
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a film so unique, intoxicating and bizarre that it not only demands another viewing, but is also forgivable as a satirical comedy where the jokes eventually take the back seat.
Blistering performances.
The film's masterful storytelling did its job. The message was clear. No need to overdo.
It is interesting even when nothing much happens, which is for most of its 3-hour running time. Read full review
People are usually divided concerning this Ryazanov movie. It's rather hard for an unprepared watcher and many, including Nikulin himself, did not like it. But it's an important milestone both in Ryazanov work as well as in Soviet cinema. Not everyone can read behind the lines, but it's a very deep social and moral satire. Already in this movie Ryazanov made a decisive step towards tragicomedy. Nikulin as the honest and very naive detective actually parodies his former "Gorbunkov" impersonations, coming close to grotesque. The final trial scene is excellent and surrealistic. Short contributions from Andrey Mironov, Georgiy Burkov are excellent. Olga Aroseva was know as TV comedy actress before this movie, and this film makes some insight into her deeper personality and talent. The film is also famous for showing the medieval architecture of Lvov and old vintage trams on its streets.