In “alternative” history, another ending to an event inevitably leads to changes in subsequent events.
On January 27, 1837, two bullets change their trajectory, after which real figures from Russian history find themselves in different, invented circumstances. The action of the film takes place 20 imaginary years later, in 1857. The Crimean War has been won by Russia, still led by Nicholas I. Still alive, although very old, are Benckendorff and Griboedov. And of course, our main heroes, Lermontov and Pushkin.
Pushkin has definitely broken with the rebellious spirit. He is rich, widely published, but all his major works have long since been written. He is still married to Natalia Goncharova. And he is writing a commission from the Court, “The History of the House of Romanov,” a pretentious and empty work.
Lermontov is lonely. A rabid duelist, he took part in the Crimean War where he was seriously wounded. He recently retired with the rank of major. However, he continues to write verses and poems that have difficulty getting published. These are the elements of this historical fantasy.
What becomes of a great author, an artist who has survived his time? What does it mean to be a Genius in Russia? What place does it give to the Citizen?
Russia and the world. The artist and power. A vicious world and pure souls. High ideas and petty hypocrisy. Salvation and catastrophe.
This is a film about today.
