Mayakovsky Laughs

This little-seen and little-discussed film combines animation with self-reflexive, live action segments to embody the anarchic, satiric spirit of the poet and playwright Vladimir Mayakovsky (1893-1930). The film also showcases Sergei Yuktevich's fondness for formal experimentation. It is nominally adapted from Mayakovsky's play "The Bedbug" and his screenplay "Forget All About the Fireplace."

Directed by Sergei Yutkevich, Anatoliy Karanovich, Mayakovsky Laughs leans on a strong ensemble — Leonid Bronevoy, Mikhail Gluzskiy, Aleksei Kapler — 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 animation titles of 1976.