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10

ProtosAngelusMar 9, 2018

From the moment it starts and until the credits roll, you are gripped in a satiric representation of the early months of post-Stalin era as a result of the Stalin's love for terror and execution. The plot is superb, the characters wellFrom the moment it starts and until the credits roll, you are gripped in a satiric representation of the early months of post-Stalin era as a result of the Stalin's love for terror and execution. The plot is superb, the characters well written and the pace is right. It does not lag or hurry.... it's just my tempo. Acting is brilliant, from Tambor's weakness to Buscemi's charisma, everyone knows their role and plays it effectively.
Are there some negative sides? Of course, but none that would even be worth mentioning.… Expand

5 of 5 users found this helpful50

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7

moviemitch96Mar 24, 2018

A pretty straightforward yet amusing and often times humorous political satire. The ensemble cast, with the likes of Steve Buscemi, Jeffrey Tambor, Jason Issacs, etc. all delivered great and humorous moments throughout. Overall, I wouldn'tA pretty straightforward yet amusing and often times humorous political satire. The ensemble cast, with the likes of Steve Buscemi, Jeffrey Tambor, Jason Issacs, etc. all delivered great and humorous moments throughout. Overall, I wouldn't call it hilarious by any means, but it was funny enough throughout and had plenty of dry humorous moments to keep it interesting and entertaining enough.… Expand

4 of 4 users found this helpful40

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9

Jess_HillMar 12, 2018

Who would have thought that the addition of British and American accents coupled with lighting fast pacing and dialogue could transform perhaps one of the bleakest backdrops in history into a riveting comedy? Iannucci has produced aWho would have thought that the addition of British and American accents coupled with lighting fast pacing and dialogue could transform perhaps one of the bleakest backdrops in history into a riveting comedy? Iannucci has produced a delightfully buoyant account of the mad grab for power in the days following Stalin's death that captures the absurdity and hubris of those closest to him which, without shielding the atrocities from the viewer, sets a tone that allows the audience to laugh along at the sheer Machiavellian complexities on display. With excellent performances from the ensemble cast, and beautiful set design providing a sumptuous backdrop to the riveting storyline, this is a funny and irreverent experience that is thoroughly enjoyable. 8.78/10… Expand

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8

Rebecca31Mar 9, 2018

Stalin dies and chaos ensues. A horrific moment in history told in a way I never expected. Stalin’s committee struggled to maintain control and create a more positive change in the Soviet Union. From the opening scene I was sold. It flipsStalin dies and chaos ensues. A horrific moment in history told in a way I never expected. Stalin’s committee struggled to maintain control and create a more positive change in the Soviet Union. From the opening scene I was sold. It flips from dark and grim to witty and hilarious in a matter of seconds. Honestly not everyone is going to enjoy The Death of Stalin but it’s a gem.

A truly brilliant script and wonderfully directed by Armando Iannucci. An excellent cast all round, particularly from Steve Buscemi and Jason Isaacs. They really can do no wrong. A word of warning, the laughs are not as frequent as the trailer may have portrayed but if you’re in any way into war comedy then do not miss this. Highly recommended and hello to Jason Isaacs.… Expand

4 of 4 users found this helpful40

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8

The3AcademySinsMar 24, 2018

The Death of Stalin is an incredibly timely, blackly comic farce about the dangers of political narrative. Every single acting performance was really top-notch and satirical. It was also nice to see Michael Palin doing work again! Every shotThe Death of Stalin is an incredibly timely, blackly comic farce about the dangers of political narrative. Every single acting performance was really top-notch and satirical. It was also nice to see Michael Palin doing work again! Every shot is meticulously crafted, as if you are watching a historical epic, but the profane humor gives this an excellent contrast. It's very easy to see the parallels between a post-Stalin Russia and the current Trump America. Fans of dark comedies, farces, history, and political thrillers are really going to enjoy this one. It's definitely a pleasant surprise of a film.… Expand

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8

Brent_MarchantMar 17, 2018

A devilishly funny dark comedy that skewers the lunacy of bureaucracy and the buffoonish behavior of the power hungry, set in the wake of the demise of Soviet dictator Josef Stalin in 1953. The film's stellar ensemble cast, combined with aA devilishly funny dark comedy that skewers the lunacy of bureaucracy and the buffoonish behavior of the power hungry, set in the wake of the demise of Soviet dictator Josef Stalin in 1953. The film's stellar ensemble cast, combined with a wickedly funny script and endless touches of high camp, make for uproariously funny viewing. Not all of the jokes work, and sometimes the film gets a little too political, but, these shortcomings aside, "The Death of Stalin" serves up loads of big laughs. Enjoy, comrade.… Expand

3 of 3 users found this helpful30

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8

DubeauMar 9, 2018

I love that satire. The actors are amazing in this movie. Sometimes funny, sometimes dark funny. But there is also a very tragic side since this is also history. Good pacing and extremely well timed editing. It is very much an adult themeI love that satire. The actors are amazing in this movie. Sometimes funny, sometimes dark funny. But there is also a very tragic side since this is also history. Good pacing and extremely well timed editing. It is very much an adult theme movie, since the brutality of the regime is well depicted. I give it a 80%. Just for the actors performances is worth the price alone.… Expand

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9

dragionnatsu66Mar 9, 2018

This films is Obviously based on true events in history ,so this film had to walk on thin ice to balance Comedy, Seriousness and Satire..And in my opinion it does so Brilliantly. I knew little about the rule of stalin and it's ongoings beforeThis films is Obviously based on true events in history ,so this film had to walk on thin ice to balance Comedy, Seriousness and Satire..And in my opinion it does so Brilliantly. I knew little about the rule of stalin and it's ongoings before and after his death , in that way this film was riveting and informing ( Obviously some of it's exaggerated for dramatic effect ). At times I thought it was a Tarantno script with it's smart humour and boldness . Also technically it has Good direction and Set design - Great Script, All the actors do a fantastic job . Would highly recommend this to anyone who likes a black-comedy and biting satire 9/10… Expand

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8

TchaikovskyMar 15, 2018

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I've seen this movie yesterday, in my opinion its a great comedy and parody of one of the worsts dictatorial and cirminal regime in the history of the XX century full of crime, genocide and political repression. The film contains a lot of sarcasm, and good english actors who plays as many main personalities of this historical period of Russia like Zukhov, Kaganovich, Beria, Molotov and others. Its in after all very funny film and intelligent humour. My conclusion a notable film.… Expand

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10

JGNYCMar 18, 2018

Pitch-black humor that's incredibly funny. If, let's say, the darker Rick and Morty episodes aren't too dark for you, and you have just a drop of knowledge and/or interest in Russian history (and I mean just the tiny drop that's probably - IPitch-black humor that's incredibly funny. If, let's say, the darker Rick and Morty episodes aren't too dark for you, and you have just a drop of knowledge and/or interest in Russian history (and I mean just the tiny drop that's probably - I hope! - common knowledge), you should really enjoy it. Fantastic cast with perfect performances in every case.… Expand

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8

AugustKellerJun 4, 2018

Some may be disturbed by its dark humor but the brutal honesty that The Death of Stalin is able to get across while poking fun at the absurdities of the situation is a feat to behold. Never too cheeky and just cruel enough, this film balancesSome may be disturbed by its dark humor but the brutal honesty that The Death of Stalin is able to get across while poking fun at the absurdities of the situation is a feat to behold. Never too cheeky and just cruel enough, this film balances its tone through its brilliant acting and clever writing. From the mind of Armando Iannucci and given to the experienced cast of Steve Buscemi, Jeffery Tambor and Simon Beale; this is a movie that oozes with craft. Mixing gags with horrific moments, The Death of Stalin‘s ambition is only matched by its wit as it takes its viewers through the wild ride of top political power movement and shows off the mixed motivations of its devious characters.

As many comedies do, The Death of Stalin sometimes lacks mind-blowing effects or a surplus of artful camerawork but that is more than made up for with razor-sharp humor. This film’s way of pointing out the extremes people will go to for power, manipulation or fear (in a word: politics) is impossible to ignore. This movie achieves every goal that a charged, political comedy wants to achieve because it gets honorable laughs and also leaves viewers with poignant food for thought. Simply put, The Death of Stalin is political satire done right.

Writing: 9/10
Direction: 8/10
Cinematography: 7/10
Acting: 9/10
Editing: 9/10
Sound: 7/10
Score/Soundtrack: 9/10
Production Design: 8/10
Casting: 9/10
Effects: 9/10

Overall Score: 8.2/10

Original Article: https://thefilmguys.blog/reviews/augusts-reviews/the-death-of-stalin-2018/… Expand

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9

MeritCobaMar 9, 2018

I have not been much interested in Stalin, even though he is an pivotal figure in history, but for his death. The events surrounding his death (and the struggle for power that ensues) made me think of the death of Tiberius, the Roman emperorI have not been much interested in Stalin, even though he is an pivotal figure in history, but for his death. The events surrounding his death (and the struggle for power that ensues) made me think of the death of Tiberius, the Roman emperor who succeeded Augustus and was succeeded in turn by Caligula. There are similarities there, even though Tiberius struck me as the more sympathetic ruler of the two. One moment especially made the connection, Tiberius lies on his deathbed, but he suddenly seems to come back to life. Caligula, who has taken the signet ring from the emperor's hand, cringes, pleads and begs his excuses. The emperor falls back on to the bed and is finally definitely dead. Another version has the head of the guard choke the emperor to death. Almost a similar moment can be found in this movie when Stalin seems momentarily to recover, making Beria, head of the security services, cringe and terrified as well. He was already setting in motion the takeover of power. Something the dictator might not see in a favorable light.

The movie is a terrible movie, for it shows what shocking terror the people in the Soviet Union had to live with under this most abject of rulers. And even though it might look over the top, reading up on sources will show you that it was like that. There is a danger to compare him to Hitler, that other abject ruler but let's not go into that. The terror can be felt in every scene and one of the shocking moments sees the entire house of Stalin being emptied by security forces and most of the staff and guards get shot by other guards. Beria's orders do not even spare his own men. Nobody is safe. The scene ends with a truck driving off with the guard ordering it to drive away getting shot in the head by another guard.

The movie is positioned as a comedy and a drama, and even though there is a certain comedy, mostly very dark, at no point is this cheap or over the top. Point in case is the opening scene. We witness the end of concert which is broadcast by a radio station. The phone rings: it is Stalin. He instructs the man to ring him back in 17 minutes. Terrified the man calls back and is then instructed to deliver a recording of the concert to dictator. But they did not record the event. And panic ensues as they redo the concert as to record it and, of course, everything goes wrong. It is funny in a way, but the underlying terror and dread is palpable. You might think this is all not real, but we know from history that Stalin actually did this. The acting is superb and I cannot actually say who takes the cake here, Buscemi is excellent as Khrushchev, Beale matches his with his portrayal of Beria. But also Tambor makes a marvelous role as weak Malenkov and Palin does a nice job as sycophant Molotov. My opinion is that one should invent an oscar for the best group of actors in a movie. My vote would be for this movie.

If there is a crucial moment in the movie then it is the moment that Beria, losing grip on the situation, threatens the other members of the Central Committee. You could feel that it would backfire. And we see how Khrushchev makes use of the moment in a marvelous but, for him no doubt, nerve-wracking manner.

The movie is an incredible well done teamwork and I love it is done by people like Buscemi, Tambor and Beale. Give actors a good script and they pull it off. This is how movies should be. It is why I often blame the badness of movies not on the actors, but on the director and the script. I would almost give this one a ten. The reason I don't give it a 10 is because the movie takes shortcuts with history. A cursory glance says that some of the events did not happen that way. Just read up on Beria's death.… Expand

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9

GinaKMar 26, 2018

A very funny comedy, but it helps if you know the history and the personalities very well. I would only downgrade it slightly for its fast pace, which makes it really difficult to make all the right connections at lightning speed. BeautifullyA very funny comedy, but it helps if you know the history and the personalities very well. I would only downgrade it slightly for its fast pace, which makes it really difficult to make all the right connections at lightning speed. Beautifully acted and, in its crazy world, totally believable.… Expand

2 of 2 users found this helpful20

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10

CrunchyGranolaMar 31, 2018

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I would never have thought of doing a comedy based on this topic. But in a deep way only satire can truly portray the abominable core of Stalin, Beria, the purges, and the creatures that occupied Stalin's inner circle. One can only humanize them by holding them up for ridicule. All of the acting is excellent. Much of the humor is quite understated (but not all of it). The portrayals of Central Committee by comedians is inspired. Weak men all of them, but Steve Buscemi's Khruschev - despite being the buffoon of the group - is the strongest and most resourceful of the lot, who realizes that the monstrous Beria is taking control and that it would be the end of all of them, sooner or later. There is a wonderful moment late in the movie when Stalin's daughter Svetlana (wonderfully played by Andrea Riseborough who looks uncannily like the real Svetlana Alliluyeva), looks at Khruschev as the plot moves forward and says simply "I didn't think it would be you". Nobody did.

There is more than enough slapstick and farce for anyone, in addition to the more subtle satire.

The biggest laugh out loud moment is the entry of Marshall Zhukov (Jason Isaacs) enters, and sheds his coat, boldly shaking his hair and chest full of medals in slo-mo.

The movie has a serious foundation though, which is skillfully united with the comedic treatment of the fools, knaves, and monsters in the Kremlin. We see terrified people being hauled away to their certain murder. We hear those murders as shot after shot is fired off camera, we see the terrified conductor being rounded up (as he later learns) to conduct a surprise concerto for Stalin's benefit tell his wife "say whatever you must" as he leaves, never expecting to see her again. We see the frightened teenager that Beria has had taken to an impromptu cell (ghoulishly garnished with flowers, as if it were a romantic encounter) before he begins raping her.

The capriciousness of the violence is also well portrayed. Disagreements among the Central Committee about whether the trains should be allowed to being in mourners for Stalin's funeral leads to thousands being massacred in the streets. The only concern among the leaders is the public relations aspects of the SNAFU.

I do not expect to see a funnier movie this year, or a more serious one.… Expand

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7

section20mi6Mar 13, 2018

A comical look at parts of the history with occasional laughter and unbelievable darkness.

2 of 2 users found this helpful20

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9

TheFilmFanaticApr 20, 2018

The Death of Stalin is a witty, smartly-written political satire that takes a fascinating look at the inner workings of a past Russian government. The hilarious performances, strong historical themes and Iannucci’s direction help elevate thisThe Death of Stalin is a witty, smartly-written political satire that takes a fascinating look at the inner workings of a past Russian government. The hilarious performances, strong historical themes and Iannucci’s direction help elevate this story past satire into being both an outrageous comedy and dissection of Russian politics. This film should not have worked given the topic and yet Iannucci found a way to make something hysterical and memorable.… Expand

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8

ahmedaiman9999Apr 15, 2018

A very-good first act + An OK second act + A great third act = A decent political satire movie

2 of 2 users found this helpful20

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9

imdoingmypartJun 6, 2018

I love a dumb comedy from time to time. Sometimes it's nice to completely leave behind any sort of critical analysis of a film and just laugh at some crude jokes for an hour and a half. The magic wears off, however, when seemingly every newI love a dumb comedy from time to time. Sometimes it's nice to completely leave behind any sort of critical analysis of a film and just laugh at some crude jokes for an hour and a half. The magic wears off, however, when seemingly every new comedy is of this ilk. In times of "dumb comedy overload," I have to sit back and reminisce about the first time I experienced the magic of films like Dr. Strangelove and The Naked Gun. Of course, Strangelove and nearly all of Leslie Nielsen's comedy films have plenty of dumb jokes that clearly required little thought. What separates these classic comedy films from the countless forgotten lazy, dumb, crude efforts that have fallen into the abyss of forgettable comedies is the fact that Strangelove and Naked Gun make the effort to exercise all of its writers' comedic chops. Some dumb jokes make it into the final cut, sure, but such humor is thrown into a comedic gumbo with all sorts of visual gags, clever dialogue, memorable one-liners, and a slew of characters ranging from the zaniest ex-Nazi scientists to dead-pan detectives. The mix of elements is what makes such films timeless; The Death of Stalin is one of those films.

The subject matter is simple: Stalin has died, and his underlings now must compete in a political king of the hill in order to claim power. Anyone with an elementary background in European history will know who ultimately succeeds, but it sure is a trip watching these historic figures bumble their way through necessary proceedings to get what they want. There is no one stand out performance as each cast member brings his or her own brand of humor to the table. Everyone gets a turn, and everyone delivers. Not every joke is a gut-wrencher; in fact, I chuckled more than I roared laughing. I doubt I even caught all of the jokes, as I was often too busy chuckling at a previous gag. For once, I enjoyed a barrage of comedy that did not build up to one big payoff but rather made the effort to keep me smiling and thoroughly entertained.

I do not want to spoil any jokes, as I myself was able to appreciate a spoiler-free experience and am grateful for such an experience, so I will make this review brief. Surprisingly accurate historical accounts and a mixed bag of gags, one-liners, and situational comedy make The Death of Stalin a refreshingly intelligent and hard-working 2018 comedy that gives its audience glimpses of influence from some of the greatest comedies in film.… Expand

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8

TVJerryApr 5, 2018

The titular event takes place early in the story, which leaves the remaining government officials in a frantic struggle for power. While there are moments of the evil that pervaded the USSR at that time, most of the narrative gets its thrustThe titular event takes place early in the story, which leaves the remaining government officials in a frantic struggle for power. While there are moments of the evil that pervaded the USSR at that time, most of the narrative gets its thrust from the mean-spirited dark humor that writer/director Armando Iannucci does so well (he created VEEP). The cast has a great time conniving and conspiring against each other, while fighting to secure their place in the new regeime. The spirited satire provides intellectual laffs, even though the comic momentum slows before it's over. Still, it's witty and entertaining in an art house way.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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8

ScraperJul 15, 2018

A unique picture with great comedic writing and acting. There is finally no waiting for scenes to set up. Each character that hits the screen adds a new, original voice and different humorous lines.

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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8

FolderMathMay 28, 2018

Drags a bit at the end, but it's still a good laugh throughout. I especially loved the presentation of the movie, with the scene fading to black some times and lines from the Soviet constitution appearing, and the slow-mo to introduceDrags a bit at the end, but it's still a good laugh throughout. I especially loved the presentation of the movie, with the scene fading to black some times and lines from the Soviet constitution appearing, and the slow-mo to introduce characters. It lightened the mood, which was necessary to balance the more dark aspects of the movie.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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0

Antoni0610Mar 14, 2022

Снимите такое же уморительное гавно, про Черчеля и Трумэна, как они под улюлюканье сбросили бомбу на Японию и уничтожали неугодных корейцев.Снимите такое же уморительное гавно, про Черчеля и Трумэна, как они под улюлюканье сбросили бомбу на Японию и уничтожали неугодных корейцев.

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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8

KeithDowApr 12, 2018

'The Death of Stalin' is the kind of film that makes you want to climb inside the head of the writer/director--in this case Armando Iannucci--and probe all the little dials and sprockets and gears to see what makes him tick.

Iannucci somehow'The Death of Stalin' is the kind of film that makes you want to climb inside the head of the writer/director--in this case Armando Iannucci--and probe all the little dials and sprockets and gears to see what makes him tick.

Iannucci somehow manages to create a wholly original and surreal work of power-mongering satire steeped in dark humor and absurdism while perfectly blending together the largely true events surrounding Stalin's death.

Add to that a powerhouse cast of dry comedy and improvisation, including Jeffrey Tambor, Steve Buscemi, and Michael Palin, combined with magnificent settings, and 'The Death of Stalin' immediately becomes this year's hidden gem of the season.… Expand

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8

EvilClownApr 14, 2018

Very funny movie, if a little niche in its appeal. The energy level stays high but sometimes veers out of control leaving the viewer trying to decipher what is being said in scenes of chaotic shouting. Steve Buscemi is always compelling andVery funny movie, if a little niche in its appeal. The energy level stays high but sometimes veers out of control leaving the viewer trying to decipher what is being said in scenes of chaotic shouting. Steve Buscemi is always compelling and scene-stealing on screen. Jeffrey Tambor and Michael Palin are both hilarious. Worth seeing if you’re interested in the subject matter but it does occasionally get down in the Soviet history weeds with some of the jokes and asides.… Expand

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9

Kwp1039Mar 25, 2019

Dark, sophisticated, and with enough subtle humor to down an African elephant, ‘The Death of Stalin’ is one of the best films of 2018. While not for everyone, the writing and delivery by this amazing cast of actors and actresses is second toDark, sophisticated, and with enough subtle humor to down an African elephant, ‘The Death of Stalin’ is one of the best films of 2018. While not for everyone, the writing and delivery by this amazing cast of actors and actresses is second to none. Given it’s historical source material, ‘The Death of Stalin’ challenges the viewer to put aside their emotional instincts for the sake of humor. The ending provides a dark connection back to the real history in which the movie was based. For a split second, the viewer is left questioning all the laughs they had along the way.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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10

Big1Mar 9, 2018

This was quite a surprise for me! I ended up watching this movie without any knowledge of what it's about. I had a smile on my face all the way through. It's the kind of movie you can recommend to anyone.

10 of 12 users found this helpful102

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9

DefinitelyMaybMay 25, 2018

Who would have thought a movie about the death of Stalin and the subsequent power grab turns out being one of the best and most funniest film of recent years. This is great political commentary drowned with black humor. This film should beWho would have thought a movie about the death of Stalin and the subsequent power grab turns out being one of the best and most funniest film of recent years. This is great political commentary drowned with black humor. This film should be taught at school because it contains great truth value of how most bureaucracy and organizations work. Forget about what your political leanings are, this is a great film about human nature at its core.… Expand

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6

tropicAcesMay 6, 2018

It starts out great, the energy and quick banter you’d expect from the creator of VEEP, but runs out steam once the third act hits. Still a pretty interesting and fun watch, with a solid cast.

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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9

HealingToolboxJul 20, 2018

A keystone Cops of boyhood friends, gangsters, murderers, are thrown into chaos when their leader dies suddenly without any obvious successor. In 20 years, they have collectively murdered all teh smart people of their country. Only sheepleA keystone Cops of boyhood friends, gangsters, murderers, are thrown into chaos when their leader dies suddenly without any obvious successor. In 20 years, they have collectively murdered all teh smart people of their country. Only sheeple are left. Their number slated to replace Stalin is the chief sheeple (Jeffrey Tambor) and can't be tolerated. The most ambitious is too dangerous to replace Stalin. Keystone Kops mayhem ensues. Only one manages to assert himself unobtrusively as the nominal adult in the room. A cast to die for. This material is so strong, it could easily be made into a stage play. The energy of a live audience would allow this material to take off even higher, as was done with Steven Spielberg's executive producing of Noises Off.… Expand

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8

Tony19Jun 28, 2018

Darkly funny take on the crisis in Stalinist Russia after the death of the main man. Decades of political terror have made even the highest officials to frightened to voice dissenting thoughts, sometimes even in their own minds. Real eventsDarkly funny take on the crisis in Stalinist Russia after the death of the main man. Decades of political terror have made even the highest officials to frightened to voice dissenting thoughts, sometimes even in their own minds. Real events are very simplified - it should be read as symbolic rather than a literal. For example secret police chief Beria is used to symbolise all manner of evil things that he was not literally responsible for. But that is just artistic licence and works well.… Expand

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7

OlivierPielMar 9, 2018

witty dialogue, excellent pacing and editing. Great entertainment and great satire of a regime that has inspired fear and awe. This should make for required watching for all students coming from Russia or China for that matter.
As for as thewitty dialogue, excellent pacing and editing. Great entertainment and great satire of a regime that has inspired fear and awe. This should make for required watching for all students coming from Russia or China for that matter.
As for as the historical value goes, well, this is not it. But the form was always more important the content.… Expand

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2

GreatMartinMar 23, 2018

“The Laughs come in jolts and waves with savage one-liners.”

Manohla Dargis New York Times “Often Hilarious” Michael Phillips Chicago Tribune “A unique and hilarious British comedy.” Mike LaSalle San Francisco Chronicle “Source of“The Laughs come in jolts and waves with savage one-liners.”

Manohla Dargis New York Times

“Often Hilarious” Michael Phillips Chicago Tribune

“A unique and hilarious British comedy.”

Mike LaSalle San Francisco Chronicle

“Source of hilarity and it is hilarious.”

Bill Goodykoontz Arizona Republic “A complete bore! Did the above critics see the same movie I saw?”

GreatMartin

“The Death of Stalin” is set in the 1950s and the fight for power in Russia after the dictator’s death. Are you laughing yet? It supposedly is satire which implies irony or sarcasm and the director/writer, Armando Iannucci, tries everything from the Marx Brothers and the Three Stooges slapstick to insult comedy, chaos, no attempt at Russian accents having various accents ranging from Brooklyn to London but getting very few reactions from the audience.

Iannucci is the writer of the much awarded HBO series “Veep” known for its comedy, irony, and sarcasm which it delivers with belly laughs, smiles, smirks, and humor while here he enlists 2 additional writers and the only smile/laugh I can remember is a crack about Grace Kelly!

The cast consisting of Steve Buscemi, Michael Palin, Simon Russell Beale, Adrian McLoughlin, Jeffrey Tambor, Olga Kurylenko, Rupert Friend, Jason Issacs, Paddy Considine among others deliver the expected performances with a little scenery chewing now and then.

Enjoy seeing people shot in the head, brains taken out of a head after the scalp is cut back and ‘fun’ things like that? Can you go another day without knowing that most good doctors in Russia were killed and that Stalin had lists of people to be killed?

Those answering ‘yes’ to any of the questions asked should probably go and see “The Death of Stalin”.

The only questions I am asking myself is have I lost my sense of humor as I’ve grown older or is funny and/or satire not what it was defined years ago?… Expand

3 of 14 users found this helpful311

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5

emkadvApr 10, 2018

I was disappointed in this film. Given the outstanding reviews, I expected something exceptional. The film could not decide whether it was satire, thriller, slapstick, or historical fiction. It swung back and forth from one to the other, noneI was disappointed in this film. Given the outstanding reviews, I expected something exceptional. The film could not decide whether it was satire, thriller, slapstick, or historical fiction. It swung back and forth from one to the other, none of them quite good enough to carry the film.… Expand

0 of 3 users found this helpful03

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5

TyranianApr 7, 2019

Intermittently funny but mostly very tedious, though the acting is quite good.

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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3

nHeat87Feb 9, 2019

I tried several times to watch this movie from start to finish but could never bring myself to do so. It's a movie full of satire that I grew weary of watching because it never delivered anything funny or emotional or thought provoking.

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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6

RalfbergsJul 17, 2018

THis movie is about the time when Stalin died and the other people who had the power were ''fighting'' to get the ''throne''. It is a decent movie, but I sort of expected something a bit funnier. I mean I have read about how it all actuallyTHis movie is about the time when Stalin died and the other people who had the power were ''fighting'' to get the ''throne''. It is a decent movie, but I sort of expected something a bit funnier. I mean I have read about how it all actually went down and some things are added here for comedic effect of course and some just added to make the story much shorter. I had highher expectations from this I guess.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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4

AproxxAug 19, 2018

But MY GOD That first hour!

MY GOD THAT FIRST HOUR! Its not funny in the least. Its DUMB. Like absurdism done badly. And I would love to see how high of a score a boring movie like this one, and as absurd, but in the context of 1776 USA,But MY GOD That first hour!

MY GOD THAT FIRST HOUR!

Its not funny in the least. Its DUMB. Like absurdism done badly.

And I would love to see how high of a score a boring movie like this one, and as absurd, but in the context of 1776 USA, or the Civil War, or or or

Im guessing not as high… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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1

qJun 29, 2018

I tried to watch this movie all the way to the end, but I got sick of hearing the f-word while waiting in vain for something to be funny. I finally hit stop and eject and set it aside to be returned to Redbox the following morning. The factI tried to watch this movie all the way to the end, but I got sick of hearing the f-word while waiting in vain for something to be funny. I finally hit stop and eject and set it aside to be returned to Redbox the following morning. The fact that the critics seem to think this piece of garbage is worthy of anyone's time proves once again that they have little in common with normal people.… Expand

0 of 15 users found this helpful015

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8

RyanHerofTimeMar 27, 2019

The Death of Stalin is unique. This movie is dark humor at its finest. What this does it shows the anxiety of living during and after Stalin's regime. It shows the evils of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union. What this also does, itThe Death of Stalin is unique. This movie is dark humor at its finest. What this does it shows the anxiety of living during and after Stalin's regime. It shows the evils of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union. What this also does, it makes fun of the people who were running it. It robs them of power and credibility. Everyone is a villain (There are no heroes). It opens your mind and makes you think after. It a must see!… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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0

KadirovFeb 9, 2021

Movie made by ultra-right propagandists to laugh on left ideals. 0 artistic value, 100% right wing advert

0 of 4 users found this helpful04

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7

DukeJonJun 10, 2019

Agreeable enough viewing, but I didn't know quite what to make of this movie. Very funny in parts, but also quite unsettling if you've read up on some of the characters previously (like the loathsome Beria and his hand in the Katyn massacre).