Save the Drowning Man

Synopsis

"Save the Drowning Man" (Спасите утопающего), a 1968 Soviet comedy directed by Aleksandr Faintsimmer and starring Andrei Ushakov, unfolds a humorous narrative centered on a case of mistaken identity involving a man believed to be drowning. The film artfully combines elements of satire and slapstick to explore themes of social chaos and human folly. Set against the backdrop of Soviet society, the story follows a series of comedic events triggered by a misunderstanding at a river, leading to a lively examination of communal reactions and individual altruism. The charming performances, particularly by Ushakov, add depth to this light-hearted yet insightful cinematic piece.

Cast

• Andrei Ushakov

  Andrei Vasilkov

• Leonid Karasyov

  Gulka

• Egor Dyakov

  Podushkin

• 

  Valeriy Nosik

  Rusalkin

• 

  Svetlana Kharitonova

  Editor

• 

  Oleg Efremov

  The Narrator

Reviews

Critically, "Save the Drowning Man" has been met with moderate appreciation, standing out as a classic example of Soviet comedic cinema from the late 1960s. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 6.8/10, reflecting a generally favorable but mixed audience reception. The movie is praised for its witty humor and the clever way it portrays everyday Soviet life with irony and warmth. Reviewers often commend Andrei Ushakov's engaging performance, highlighting his comedic timing and expressive acting as key highlights. Some critics point out that while the humor might seem dated or subtle to contemporary international viewers, it remains an insightful window into the cultural and social dynamics of its era. However, certain reviews mention that the pacing may feel uneven, and some comedic nuances could be lost without an understanding of the historical context. Overall, "Save the Drowning Man" is appreciated for its nostalgic value and its blend of humor and social commentary, making it an engaging watch for enthusiasts of classic international cinema.