Lustige Burschen

According to the book LENIN'S TOMB: THE LAST DAYS IF THE SOVIET EMPIRE a Pulitzer Prize winner), Stalin screened this movie after signing the death sentences of about 5,000 people (who had never had a trial), including many he knew personally, his friends.

It is a highly musical film completely devoid of any depression and political propaganda. Such films help us to get a close look at ourselves and to understand how lazy we all are nowadays ("we are a lazy generation" - remember "Burnout 3: Takedown"?). Look at today's musical films - they cannot keep the pace with this old comedy. The film was restored in 1978 (if I remember it correctly) and the version I've watched is pretty good. During singing the movement of the actors' lips and the sound of the voice are not always matching each other but that's not important. The quality of the sound is very satisfactory and lets the viewer hear wonderful voices of our best 20th century actors in their full glory.

Among the numerous funny scenes I would like to point out the following "signature moves" which really attracted my attention:

1) the camera's glide along the bodies of sunbathing holidaymakers (feet, backs, buttocks, feet, feet, backs, etc.) - that's something I've never seen in a movie; 2) the "beat-'em-all" sequence: the ultimate "disassembly" of the whole band (instruments included) - that's something even Mr Jacky Chan has to watch closely and admire; 3) "the raining race": the guys from the band "Merry Fellows" are riding a catafalque to get to the theatre and this race looks simply insane.

Together with "Volga - Volga" (1938) it is a brilliant example of our best musical comedies. If you should call some classics of this genre "cult", then don't forget "Vesyolye rebyata" (1934). It is one of those examples when you can easily skip the imperfections and enjoy the whole piece.

Mr Leonid Utyosov gives, quite possibly, his best performance and Mrs Lyubov Orlova shines again.

When I have more time and inclination, I shall add more details to my comment. Meanwhile, 10 out of 10. Thank you for attention.

I don"t understand the users who have written these reviews. This film is idiotic, amateurish and mendacious. Look at that those first ten minutes! Those rich and happy peasants! It was made in the years after the time when the entire country was hit by epidemics and famine. Millions died and suffered.from mass repression. According to this film this was the time of happy peasants and funny musicals. So the word "lovely" sounds a bit weird.

music, acting, humor, message, image. it is more than a comedy. or music hall. it is a travel in time. not for its venerable age but for its time. because, in dark period of Stalinism, this demonstration of pure joy, this manifesto of profound freedom is unique. sure, not extraordinary script and the waves of songs are essential virtue. but it remains special. for the gorgeous naivety with flavor of childhood adventure. for memorable scenes. for the impressive demonstration of animal tights. for drops of love and, sure, for extraordinary voices. and, at first sigh, it is enough. but, after each new view, it is different. out of charming atmosphere it is strange tension. and testimony of a form, subtle, delicate, special of courage. because it is one of films - letter for future.

Very funny and kind movie. Creates great atmosphere, makes one smile along with the actors. Leaves very warm overall impression. I have seen it many times and have been spellbound by it again and again. A great combination of cheeky and kind humor, music, songs that have become everlasting hits, touching naivety and sincerity. Undeniable and ageless masterpiece. Should be properly and carefully restored.

A small comment to IMDb the movie was shot in CRIMEA and not in Odessa. Please correct!