Kaviar (2019)

Elena Tikhonova's comedy "Money Doesn't Stink", released in 2019, offers a witty and biting exploration of ambition, corruption, and unexpected twists. The film immerses us in Vienna, where a story of grand plans and grand schemes unfolds.

Plot (Spoiler-Free)

At the center of events is Russian oligarch Igor, whose dream is ambitious and absurd: to build a luxurious villa right on Vienna's famous High Bridge. To achieve this, he must overcome Austrian bureaucracy and bribe numerous politicians and officials. He hires a translator, Nadya, as an assistant, who, however, has her own ideas, quite different from Igor's, about how this money should be spent. This clash of interests sets off a chain of events promising viewers subtle humor and sharp conflicts.

Why You Should Watch It

• Timely Satire: The film wittily mocks issues of corruption and power through the lens of black humor and absurdity.
• Cultural Contrast: The clash between Russian extravagance and Viennese meticulousness creates numerous comedic situations.
• Unpredictable Intrigue: The hidden motives of the translator Nadya add depth and intrigue to the plot.
• Strong Ensemble Cast: Simon Schwarz, Sabrina Reiter, Darya Nosik, Mikhail Evlanov, and Georg Friedrich promise brilliant performances.

Themes

"Money Doesn't Stink" addresses themes of human ambition and its cost, demonstrating what people are willing to do for their audacious ideas. Corruption takes center stage as an integral part of a complex social mechanism. The film explores moral choices, personal gain, and cultural differences influencing the perception of power and justice.

Verdict

"Money Doesn't Stink" is a smart and dynamic story, concealing relevant social commentary beneath a witty facade. Elena Tikhonova's direction and a talented cast make the 2019 film a funny yet thought-provoking entertainment. If you appreciate cinema that can balance humor with biting social satire, this comedy is worth watching. Prepare for virtuoso performances and unforeseen twists in the heart of the European capital.