Old Man

A man in his 30s visits a Soviet school to try to hook up with a young teacher there, and meets one of her students, whom he enlists to help introduce him to his romantic interest. While he waits for the student to free up, he observes the absurd Soviet culture, most evident within the school system, especially among the younger children.

Directed by Yefim Galperin, Old Man leans on a strong ensemble — Sergey Svechnikov, Kirill Baturin, Irina Kirichenko — 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 comedy titles of 1979.