The Tsar     01.11.2009
The Mikhailovsky Theatre continues its tradition of presenting new Russian films.
On November, 1 the theatre is showing the film The Tsar by Pavel Lungin.


The director focuses on Ivan The Terrible’s relationship with Philip the Metropolitan of Moscow, it’s a mix of personal psychology and the wider machinations of the conflict between church and state.

Described by Lungin as a metaphor for Russia past and present, On one level the offers the traditional delights of an old- fashioned costume drama, on the different level, it strives to get inside the mind of the Tsar.

The two leading actors provide a suitable study in contrasts: Oleg Yankovsky (Philip) bringing a quiet dignity to his man of faith and Mamonov (Ivan the Terrible) relishing the wild-eyed excesses of his rampant tyrant.