van Vasilievich: Back to the Future (1973) Watch Online Free

A scientist builds a time machine and accidentally sends his apartment complex manager and a petty burglar to 16th century Moscow, while Tsar Ivan the Terrible travels to 1973.

“Ivan Vasilyevich Changes His Profession” (1973) is a classic Soviet comedy directed by Leonid Gaiday, based on Mikhail Bulgakov’s posthumously published play Ivan Vasilyevich. The film follows the hilarious chaos unleashed when a time machine malfunctions, sending Ivan the Terrible (the notorious Tsar of Russia) to 20th-century Moscow while a modern-day Russian man resembling the historical figure is thrown back in time to the era of the tsar. The plot’s absurdity and humor emerge from the cultural clash between the two eras, as well as the bumbling antics of the characters involved. The film is a delightful blend of slapstick, satire, and science fiction, characterized by Gaiday’s energetic and cartoonish directing style.

Plot Overview

The story begins with Shurik, a nerdy and ambitious young inventor in Moscow, who attempts to create a time machine. When he inadvertently activates his invention, he finds himself knocked unconscious, and when he wakes up, everything around him has changed—he is now thrust into a vibrant and chaotic world. Shurik’s neighbor, a man named Bunsha, who closely resembles Ivan the Terrible, ends up traveling to 16th-century Russia. Meanwhile, the real Ivan the Terrible is transported to the modern world, landing in Shurik’s apartment and causing further confusion. The plot weaves between these time periods, as the characters adjust to their new surroundings, engage in mistaken identities, and attempt to fix the time machine before things spiral even further out of control.

10 Reasons to Watch “Ivan Vasilyevich Changes His Profession”

1. Unique Concept: The film’s premise of time travel and the absurd consequences of swapping historical figures with modern characters makes it an engaging and original comedy.
2. Nostalgic Soviet Charm: This film offers a glimpse into Soviet-era humor and filmmaking, showcasing how the Soviet Union used comedy to provide social commentary on the absurdities of life.
3. Energetic Direction: Directed by Leonid Gaiday, known for his fast-paced, slapstick style, the film is full of frantic energy, cartoonish antics, and visual gags that keep the viewer entertained from start to finish.
4. Cultural Humor: The film is steeped in Russian culture and humor, with many in-jokes and cultural references that provide depth for Russian audiences, while still being accessible and funny for international viewers.
5. Memorable Performances: The lead actors, including Aleksandr Demyanenko as Shurik and Yury Yakovlev as Ivan the Terrible, deliver strong performances that add to the film’s charm. Their comedic timing is spot-on, and the contrast between their characters is part of the film’s brilliance.
6. A True Classic of Soviet Cinema: “Ivan Vasilyevich Changes His Profession” is one of the highest-grossing Soviet comedies of all time and remains a beloved film in Russia, often considered a must-watch for fans of Soviet cinema.
7. Bulgakov’s Influence: The film adapts Mikhail Bulgakov’s work, and while it takes liberties, it still maintains the satirical tone that makes Bulgakov’s writing so intriguing. It provides a lighter, comedic interpretation of his themes.
8. Timeless Appeal: Despite its 1970s Soviet setting, the themes of mistaken identity, time travel, and absurdity remain relatable to modern audiences, making the film timeless in its appeal.
9. Visually Creative: The film uses clever cinematic techniques to illustrate the clash of eras, including the transition from black-and-white scenes in Shurik’s world to vibrant color once the time travel kicks in. The visual style supports the absurdity of the storyline.
10. Humor That Transcends Language: While deeply rooted in Russian culture, the film’s slapstick and visual comedy are universal, meaning that even those unfamiliar with Soviet history or language will enjoy its humor.

How Will You Feel After Watching?

After watching Ivan Vasilyevich Changes His Profession, you will likely feel a mix of amusement and awe at the creativity of Soviet-era filmmakers. The absurdity of the plot, combined with the energetic performances, makes for a lighthearted viewing experience. You may feel a sense of nostalgia or a connection to the humor of past decades, but more importantly, you will likely be left with a smile on your face due to its universal comedic appeal. The film’s manic pace and slapstick humor will make you laugh, while the quirky time travel twist might also leave you thinking about the absurdities of historical legacies and modern life.

This film’s blend of historical references, cultural humor, and timeless comedic antics makes it a delightful watch for both film buffs and general audiences alike.