The Duelist

Synopsis

The Duelist (Дуэлянт) is a Russian historical drama film released in 2016, directed by Aleksey Mizgirev. The story follows Yakovlev, a retired officer turned duelist for hire in 19th-century Saint Petersburg. His life takes a turn when he encounters an enigmatic woman who challenges his beliefs and offers him a chance for redemption. As Yakovlev navigates a web of deceit and intrigue, he must confront his past and unravel the mysteries that haunt him. With stunning visuals and gripping storytelling, The Duelist is a captivating tale of vengeance, honor, and forbidden love set against the backdrop of a turbulent era in Russian history.

Cast

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  Pyotr Fyodorov

  Yakovlev

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  Vladimir Mashkov

  Earl Beklemishev

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  Franziska Petri

  Aleksandra Iosifovna

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  Martin Wuttke

  German Baron

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  Sergey Garmash

  One-armed nobleman

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  Yuri Kolokolnikov

  Basargin

Reviews

The Duelist has received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for its visual style and performances. Rotten Tomatoes gave it a 43% rating, with critics acknowledging the film's striking cinematography but pointing out its slow pacing. IMDb rated it 6.4/10, reflecting a moderate audience response to the movie. Metacritic gave it a score of 55/100, indicating a lukewarm critical reception. Some reviewers have appreciated the film's atmospheric setting and Pyotr Fyodorov's compelling portrayal of Yakovlev, while others have criticized its convoluted plot and lack of character development. Despite its flaws, The Duelist has managed to intrigue audiences with its unique take on the dueling culture of 19th-century Russia.