Ilyenkov 2017
Ilyenkov (2017) dives into the high-stakes intellectual battles of Soviet-era philosophy as seen through the life of Evald Ilyenkov, a bold thinker determined to strip Marxism of hollow dogmas.
Director: Alexander Rozhkov
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ilyenkov (2017) about?
The film follows Soviet philosopher Evald Ilyenkov as he challenges the ideological clichés embedded in Marxism, clashing with both his colleagues and the Soviet regime. His relentless pursuit of intellectual honesty spirals into a personal and professional downfall that devastates his family.
Who directed Ilyenkov?
Ilyenkov was directed by Alexander Rozhkov, a filmmaker known for blending historical inquiry with dramatic storytelling.
Who stars in Ilyenkov?
While cast details aren't widely listed, the documentary centers on Evald Ilyenkov himself, framed by interviews and archival appearances of Soviet intellectuals and officials involved in his story.
Is Ilyenkov (2017) worth watching?
As a dense, thought-provoking documentary on Soviet ideology and dissent, Ilyenkov offers a niche but gripping perspective. Though unrated on IMDb, its 81-minute runtime and thematic depth make it appealing to fans of intellectual history and political philosophy.
How long is Ilyenkov?
Ilyenkov runs for 81 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About Ilyenkov (2017) — When Truth Meets Power in Soviet Philosophy
Ilyenkov (2017) dives into the high-stakes intellectual battles of Soviet-era philosophy as seen through the life of Evald Ilyenkov, a bold thinker determined to strip Marxism of hollow dogmas. Rozhkov's documentary captures the mounting tension between Ilyenkov's radical ideas and the rigid ideological controls of the USSR, painting a portrait of a man whose quest for authentic thought becomes a personal tragedy. The film immerses viewers in Cold War-era academia, where intellectual freedom clashes with state power, unfolding like a philosophical thriller rather than a dry historical record.
Set against the bleak yet charged atmosphere of mid-20th century Moscow, Ilyenkov (2017) explores themes of censorship, intellectual integrity, and the human cost of dissent. Through archival footage and dramatic reconstruction, it reveals how Ilyenkov's uncompromising stance isolated him from peers and authorities alike, culminating in a story that resonates with anyone drawn to stories of defiance against oppressive systems. This isn't just a documentary about ideas—it's a haunting meditation on what it means to think freely in a world determined to control thought.