Ury Viushkin

The action is set in 1970 as the Soviet Union (and the entire progressive world) are preparing to celebrate Lenin's centenary. Not to be outdone, the camp commander decides to have the prisoners put on a play about Lenin's life. However, the ensuing preparations turn everything upside down and seem to offer a God-given chance to plot an escape.

Almanac of five short stories commissioned by ROSKOMKINO to celebrate the 100th anniversary of cinema.

A man invites a call girl to his place. He pays in advance for 10 hours of her time. He tells her about his ex-wife and happiness he once had. Her story is very similar to his. Why couldn't they keep their love? Can they return to their previous lives?

Italian gambler who is well-skilled in the card trade owes people in authority, and leaves his country to win the money. Arriving in a small Russian town, he tries to show off his tricks to the local card swindlers but is caught and ends up agreeing to a friendship and a cooperation. It is hard not to find oneself liking the gallant Italian.