The Scoundrel, or Running On the Spot 1984
In 1984's *The Scoundrel, or Running On the Spot*, Viktor Tregubovich crafts a sharp Soviet-era comedy of manners that blends wit with a touch of the grotesque.
Director: Viktor Tregubovich
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *The Scoundrel, or Running On the Spot* (1984) about?
This Soviet-era comedy follows San Sanych Lubomudrov, a cunning employee at a prestigious research institute who navigates the absurdities of institutional life with effortless charm. Using his psychological insights and social acumen, he turns bureaucracy into a game, outsmarting colleagues and superiors alike in a high-stakes dance of wit and deception.
Who directed *The Scoundrel, or Running On the Spot*?
Viktor Tregubovich directed this 1984 gem, known for blending sharp social satire with darkly comedic elements.
Who stars in *The Scoundrel, or Running On the Spot*?
The film features Aleksandr Kalyagin as the lead, alongside Lyudmila Gurchenko, Tatyana Dogileva, Yuriy Kuznetsov, and Irina Dymchenko.
Is *The Scoundrel, or Running On the Spot* (1984) worth watching?
While it carries no IMDb rating, this comedy of manners shines for its clever satire and engaging performances. Fans of vintage Soviet comedies or sharp, character-driven humor will find Tregubovich's film both entertaining and thought-provoking, making it a worthwhile watch for its unique blend of wit and social commentary.
How long is *The Scoundrel, or Running On the Spot*?
The runtime for *The Scoundrel, or Running On the Spot* is 89 minutes.
About The Scoundrel, or Running On the Spot (1984) — A Soviet-era comedy of manners with sharp wit and social satire
In 1984's *The Scoundrel, or Running On the Spot*, Viktor Tregubovich crafts a sharp Soviet-era comedy of manners that blends wit with a touch of the grotesque. The film follows San Sanych Lubomudrov, a seemingly ordinary employee at a prestigious research institute whose true talent lies in navigating the labyrinthine social hierarchies of 1980s academia. With effortless charm and psychological precision, Lubomudrov transforms into an unlikely social chameleon, using his wit to outmaneuver the "right" people while keeping the absurdity of institutional life in sharp focus. Tregubovich's direction delivers a satirical yet affectionate portrait of a man who turns bureaucracy into his personal playground, where every handshake could be a transaction and every conversation a performance. The result is a darkly humorous escapade that feels both timeless and distinctly Soviet, wrapped in a tone that oscillates between playful mischief and biting social commentary.
Starring Aleksandr Kalyagin in the role of the endlessly resourceful Lubomudrov, the film benefits from a stellar cast including Lyudmila Gurchenko and Tatyana Dogileva, whose performances add depth to the satire. *The Scoundrel, or Running On the Spot* is a clever, fast-paced comedy that revels in the absurdity of professional environments, where competence takes a backseat to social maneuvering. Tregubovich's direction ensures the film never descends into pure farce, instead maintaining a delicate balance between grotesque humor and poignant observation.