Reviews

I first watched this film when it came out on Russian TV screens, then owned a copy on video watching on average twice a months up to the point that the cassette was completely worn out. I bought another copy to bring back with me to the UK when I moved, that one is also now deceased, so have since ordered a DVD. I just can't live without this film!!! It exudes positive energy, cast is superb, and just one of those films that one can watch over and over again and never get tired, especially if you fancy yourself as an amateur sleuth like Alice Postique!!! And what's amazing the whole film is shot in one room, just goes to show that it's not always necessary to go to great expense to produce an excellent movie.

This film has celebrated its 30th anniversary on this 2006 New Year Eve, and there was a special programme about the creation of the film, actors etc. Apparently, the whole country (then USSR) watched it when it was first shown in 1976, and they wanted to see if the rating would be the same 30 years later. I have to say, I have been watching this film religiously since early teens every New Year and when I moved to live in the UK, the video recording of "Ironiya" was one of the essential items I brought with me. It's one of those films that I can watch over and over again, instant mood lifter, and I just can't imagine my New Year day / eve without it, and a bottle of "Soviet" champagne, and Russian salad, and the proverbial Jellied fish that Ippolit referred to as "muck" (I think the closest translation I can think of). On my way back from Moscow to London in Janaury, I tried to purchase a DVD copy in the airport but was told by the assistant that they are permanently sold out!!!