Director: Armando Iannucci
Writers: Armando Iannucci, David Schneider
Stars: Steve Buscemi, Simon Russell Beale, Jeffrey Tambor 

The film ‘The Death of Stalin’ is an adaptation of a French graphic novel, portraying the final days of the Soviet dictator and the ensuing chaos within the regime. Renowned writer and director Armando Iannucci, a figure I’ve admired for nearly three decades, demonstrates his prowess once again in this latest project.

While categorised as a comedy, the film delves into considerably darker territory than conventional comedies. Iannucci takes a unique approach to a gravely serious historical event, offering a perspective that is both clever and comedic, eliciting laughter in a way seldom experienced.

It is important to note that all characters in the film are satirical representations of actual people, contributing to the humour. Additionally, the decision to have the cast speak in their own regional accents, rather than adopting faux Russian accents, adds an extra layer of humor and uniqueness. Iannucci’s insistence on this choice was twofold: to maintain audience immersion and to allow actors the freedom to improvise without concerns about accents.

The ensemble cast for this film is exceptional, with standout performances, particularly from Steve Buscemi, who portrays Nikita Khrushchev. Buscemi’s portrayal of Khrushchev as a paranoid yet clever character is both odd and captivating, showcasing his trademark quick, deadpan wit.

Simon Russell Beale’s portrayal of Lavrenti Beria is captivating, depicting the character as possibly the most cunning among the group. Jeffrey Tambor brings a calming and humorous presence to his role as Georgy Malenkov, providing a stark contrast to other characters. Jason Isaacs, playing Field Marshal Zhukov, stands out with his no-nonsense attitude and memorable one-liners.

The film’s cinematography, marked by a sense of improvisation, enhances the chaotic atmosphere, complementing the fast-paced nature of the narrative. Despite its ban in Russia for allegedly desecrating historical symbols, the film’s release garnered critical acclaim.

In conclusion, ‘The Death of Stalin’ may not appeal to everyone’s taste, but for those who appreciate Iannucci’s satirical wit and clever writing, it proves to be an enjoyable experience. The stellar cast delivers strong performances, and the film, despite its unconventional subject matter, stands out as one of the most enjoyable comedy films of 2017, deserving a high recommendation

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