The movie Old Man Hottabych is a Russian fantasy-comedy film directed by Gennady Kazansky and produced by Mosfilm in 1984. It is based on the novel of the same name written by Lazar Lagin. The movie tells the story of a young boy named Volka who stumbles upon an old, dusty lamp that contains a genie named Hottabych. Volka's life is forever changed as he ends up with an incredibly powerful genie at his disposal. Hottabych is from ancient times and struggles to adjust to the modern world he is now in. The two main characters forge an unlikely friendship and embark on wild adventures together.
The film opens with the camera panning over the city of Moscow and focusing on the apartment complex where young Volka lives with his family. The apartment is run-down and chaotic, mirroring the lives of the residents. Volka is a typical ten-year-old boy who idolizes his grandfather and dreams of adventure. When he stumbles upon the old lamp, it initially seems like a dud. However, when Volka rubs it, the genie Hottabych is released and ready to fulfill Volka's every wish. Hottabych is a comedic, larger-than-life character who can grant anything his new young master desires. However, the genie's interpretation of Volka's requests often leads to mishap and mayhem.
As Volka begins to use Hottabych's powers to make his wildest dreams come true, he quickly learns that the genie is more trouble than it's worth. The first thing that Hottabych does when he is released from his lamp is to make the family's apartment into a grand palace that is quickly noticed by the neighbors. As news of their newfound wealth spreads, Volka's parents find themselves surrounded by curious strangers who take advantage of their kindness. Meanwhile, Volka and Hottabych spend their time exploring the city, getting into trouble, and annoying everyone they come into contact with.
One of the unique features of the movie is its characters. The film's actors bring their own personalities to their respective roles, making the characters feel genuine and relatable. The character of Hottabych is played by actor Nikolai Karachentsov, who infuses the genie with humor, sarcasm, and naivete. He is both an endearing and troublesome figure who captures the hearts of the audience. The character of Volka is played by actor Ivan Ryzhov, who plays the role of a typical young boy who is curious about the world around him. His portrayal is full of excitement, adventure, and wonder, as he explores the fantastic world with Hottabych.
Another significant aspect of the film is its portrayal of Russia's history and culture. The movie takes place in Moscow in the 1980s and features many scenes shot in famous locations, including the Red Square and St. Basil's Cathedral. The events and characters that the story presents are utterly Russian in nature, emphasizing the nation's cultural diversity and unique character. The movie has a specific time and place, but its themes are universal and captivating to viewers of all ages and backgrounds.
Old Man Hottabych is a charming and delightful film that perfectly blends fantasy, humor, and adventure in a way that is utterly captivating. The movie is a nostalgic look back at a by-gone era, as well as a reminder of the joys that come with possessing the power to alter reality. The movie's central message is the importance of loyalty and friendship, even when things get chaotic and seemingly out of control. The film goes beyond tales of amiable genie and curious kids to examine deeper themes such as the value of family and the bonds that mean the most. Overall, Old Man Hottabych is a masterpiece that will and should draw in a new generation of viewers.
