Ivan Vasilyevich Changes Occupation

Ivan Vasilyevich Changes Occupation is a 1973 Russian comedy film directed by the respected Leonid Gaidai, well-known for his series of successful comedies during the Soviet era. The film features an excellent ensemble cast, led by versatile actors Yuriy Yakovlev, Leonid Kuravlyov, and Aleksandr Demyanenko. Based on Mikhail Bulgakov’s play "Ivan Vasilyevich", the film borrows heavily from the narrative, but presents it with a distinctive comedic twist.

The plot primarily revolves around an unlikely incident involving time travel. Shurik (Aleksandr Demyanenko), an eccentric and brilliant inventor, creates a time machine in his apartment. During one of his experimental uses of this machine, there are unexpected results. He inadvertently opens up a portal to the 16th century, causing quite a disruption in history. This mishap results in bringing Ivan the Terrible (Yuriy Yakovlev) into the present day, while simultaneously sending two characters, Bunsha (also played by Yuriy Yakovlev), who is a building superintendent, and George Miloslavsky (Leonid Kuravlyov), a small-time burglar, back into the past. These unwitting individuals switch places with the Tsar of All the Russias, causing hilarious chaos both in the past and in the present.

One intriguing aspect of the film is the brilliant double-role essayed by Yuriy Yakovlev. His performance as both Ivan the Terrible and Ivan Bunsha demonstrates his capability to convincingly portray distinctly different characters. He masterfully balances the fierce and imposing Tsar Ivan the Terrible with the passive, timid, and more likeable Bunsha. On the other hand, Leonid Kuravlyov's character, George Miloslavsky, brings a light-hearted criminal element to the story, adding another layer to the comedic plot.

The film extracts humor from the variety of anachronistic situations both in the past and the present. Ivan the Terrible's bafflement and fascination with the modern-day amenities, and Bunsha and George Miloslavsky's hilariously frantic attempts to fit into the 16th-century Russian royal court, are sure to bring out laughter. As the timeline of the story oscillates between the past and the present, so do our protagonists stumble, trying to navigate the quirks of each time period.

Ivan Vasilyevich Changes Occupation is notable for its clever display of situational comedy. It isn’t just the mishaps and unexpected situations that provide the humor, but also the carefully crafted dialogue, character interactions, and impeccable comedic timing. It’s a classic example of Gaidai’s brilliant use of comedy to navigate through a plot that could otherwise have become too complicated for the average viewer.

But while the film is predominantly a comedy, it also features some serious undertones, especially in its reflection on the nature of power, authority and their impacts on society. Ivan the Terrible, finding himself in the "modern world," cannot comprehend why his commands are not heeded instantly. Meanwhile, in the past, the ordinary Bunsha and robber Miloslavsky are suddenly thrusted with enormous power, and their righteous or selfish uses of the power add a dimension of social commentary to the narrative.

The film captures the essence of 16th-century Russia, as well as 1970s Moscow, with an impressive attention to detail. In doing so, it contrasts the darker, oppressive past with the modern and seemingly liberating present. Cinematographer Sergei Poluyanov deserves praise for his excellent work in capturing the two time periods distinctly.

Complimenting the overall narrative, Gaidai effectively employs music to set the movie's mood. Composed by Aleksandr Zatsepin, the film's musical score successfully enhances the comedic tone while seamlessly blending into the narrative.

Ivan Vasilyevich Changes Occupation is not just a comedic amusement; it offers a generous dose of social commentary. Despite its historical setting and references, the film is able to resonate with modern audiences due to its timeless humor and relatable themes. It is a testament to the fact that a good story combined with exceptional performances can transcend time and geographical boundaries. It is no wonder that the film was a huge box off success domestically and stands as a classic in Russian and Soviet Era cinematography. For anyone interested in a historical comedy that combines intellectual humor with a fascinating story, Ivan Vasilyevich Changes Occupation is a must-see.