Vacation of Petrov and Vasechkin, Usual and Incredible is a Soviet comedy film released in 1984 as a sequel to the original movie featuring the adventures of two schoolboys, Petrov and Vasechkin. Directed by Vladimir Alenikov, the movie continues to follow the lives of the two mischievous friends during their summer vacation. This family-friendly film is a blend of humor, coming-of-age themes, and a nostalgic portrayal of Soviet youth during the 1980s.
As the title suggests, the movie pivots around the pair’s holiday season, contrasting the mundane with the extraordinary happenings that seem to trail the boys wherever they go. The film is structured around a series of episodic events that spotlight everyday Soviet life but showcase the extraordinary wit, vitality, and creativity of its young protagonists, Petrov and Vasechkin.
The film begins as the school year draws to a close, and Petrov and Vasechkin are on the cusp of the long-awaited summer vacation. The boys, played by the same actors from the first film, have grown a bit older and are ready to explore new horizons. Their excitement is palpable, and their plans are as ambitious as they are imaginative.
The backdrop of the movie is a typical Soviet town during the summertime, complete with the iconography of the era. The town serves as a canvas for the boys' escapades, as well as a microcosm of the society they live in, complete with its quirks and charms. The film captures the zeitgeist of the 80s in the USSR, with its community dynamics, leisurely pace of life, and the camaraderie amongst neighbors and friends.
Petrov is characterized as the more audacious and inventive of the duo, with a knack for getting both of them into trouble and a charm that often helps them wiggle out of tight spots. Vasechkin, on the other hand, is the more reasonable and contemplative companion, often serving as the voice of caution, but always standing by Petrov’s side regardless of the scenarios they find themselves in.
The boys’ vacation is far from uneventful; it is filled with exploits that include attempts at summer romances, brushes with local authorities, and interactions with a host of colorful characters including family members, other children, and the unique array of townsfolk. Each episode presents new challenges and adventures, allowing the audience to witness the growth and resourcefulness of the two boys.
One of the delightful aspects of Vacation of Petrov and Vasechkin, Usual and Incredible is the clever and wholesome humor it employs. The film manages to be genuinely funny without resorting to crudeness or adult themes, making it suitable for viewers of all ages. The situations the boys find themselves in inspire laughter and empathy, as many can relate to the joys and trials of childhood.
Themes of friendship, loyalty, and the trials of growing up are central to the film. Petrov and Vasechkin consistently prove that their solidarity as friends is what enables them to navigate each new challenge. Whether facing down bullies, concocting elaborate schemes, or dealing with the misunderstandings of adults in their world, their bond remains unbreakable.
The movie also takes moments to explore each boy's family life, offering a glimpse into the dynamics of Soviet familial relationships and the expectations placed on young boys during this time. There is an endearing quality to the portrayals of parents and grandparents, who, despite being sometimes confounded by their children's antics, clearly have deep affection for them.
Vacation of Petrov and Vasechkin, Usual and Incredible also maintains a whimsical style, occasionally breaking the fourth wall and hinting at a self-awareness about its role as a film, creating engagement and complicity with the audience. This technique adds to the lighthearted and enjoyable nature of the story.
The cinematography of the film captures the essence of a Soviet summer in lush, vibrant colors. Outdoor scenes lend the movie an air of freedom and space, enabling the youthful energy of the protagonists to come fully alive. The film's pacing deliberately alternates between moments of high energy and more introspective intervals, allowing viewers to ponder the more subtle messages woven into the narrative.
As the summer – and the movie – draw to a close, the impression left upon the audience is one of nostalgia mixed with a certain timelessness essential to childhood stories. The experiences of Petrov and Vasechkin are specific to their time and place, yet their adventures echo the universal themes of youth, making the film relatable and heartwarming.
In conclusion, Vacation of Petrov and Vasechkin, Usual and Incredible is a cinematic exploration of the innocence and mischief inherent in the lives of two young friends. Its ability to charm and entertain, while providing a window into Soviet culture, ensures its place as a beloved film for those who grew up with it, and a delightful discovery for new audiences. It’s a tale that reminds us of the simplest, yet most profound, aspects of being young: the friendship, the freedom, and the endless possibilities that grow from an ordinary vacation turned incredible.
