The Suicide 1990
In Valery Pendrakovsky's sharp 1990 Soviet comedy *The Suicide*, Semyon Podsekalnikov reaches his breaking point as the New Economic Policy reshapes Russia.
Director: Valery Pendrakovsky
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *The Suicide (1990)* about?
The film follows Semyon Podsekalnikov, a man in 1920s Soviet Russia who, desperate to avoid living off his wife and mother-in-law, contemplates suicide. His half-hearted attempts at self-destruction spiral into a comedic spectacle as he becomes entangled in absurd bureaucratic and personal entanglements.
Who directed *The Suicide*?
Valery Pendrakovsky directed this darkly comedic adaptation of Nikolai Erdman's classic play.
Who stars in *The Suicide*?
The film features Sergey Shakurov, Leonid Kuravlyov, Aleksandr Trofimov, Vyacheslav Nevinnyy, and Vladimir Menshov in key roles.
Is *The Suicide (1990)* worth watching?
If you enjoy sharp Soviet-era comedies with a satirical edge, *The Suicide* is a hidden gem. Its blend of farce and existential themes offers a unique viewing experience, though its niche appeal may not suit all tastes.
How long is *The Suicide*?
The runtime is 90 minutes.
About The Suicide (1990) — A Soviet Comedy Where Despair Meets Farce
In Valery Pendrakovsky's sharp 1990 Soviet comedy *The Suicide*, Semyon Podsekalnikov reaches his breaking point as the New Economic Policy reshapes Russia. Tired of relying on his wife and domineering mother-in-law, he decides his only way out is to end his life—sparking a chain of absurd yet poignant events. Based on Nikolai Erdman's provocative play, the film blends dark humor with biting social commentary, capturing the tension between individual despair and bureaucratic indifference.
The atmosphere crackles with chaotic energy as Semyon's half-hearted suicide plans spiral into farce, exposing the absurdity of a society where survival feels like a full-time job. With a stellar cast led by Sergey Shakurov and Leonid Kuravlyov, *The Suicide (1990)* remains a cult classic that tackles existential dread with wit and warmth.