The Bug

In the modest apartment of a former school teacher and insect expert, Zyablikova, the lights are turned off. This happens right on the eve of a television shoot that will change his whole life! It turns out he has a huge debt. But from where? Nobody can explain. To achieve connection, you need to submit an application through your personal account. But Zyablikov is not “friendly” with the Internet; he has an old push-button telephone. Walking in circles in the system of automatically recording fines, instructions, and personal accounts is gradually destroying it. Zyablkov himself now feels like an insect locked in a jar. And only with the rare beetle he caught can he have a heart-to-heart talk.

Directed by Daria-Elena Dashunina, The Bug leans on a strong ensemble — Vladimir Timofeev, Anton Anosov, Milana Bru — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 2023.