Black Demon

Unremarkable at first glance, the murders in different parts of the city lead a young investigator named Sergei into a maze of dirty old secrets. For a long time, Sergei can't understand the motives or thought process of the criminal. But one detainee gives him a good hint: the scenario of the killer's actions inexplicably resembles the plot of the cartoon "About the Silly Winky-String", which is shown on TV in the city of N. The intrigue grows, and as the murders continue, the events take on an increasingly sinister tinge.

Directed by Konstantin Timofeev, Black Demon leans on a strong ensemble — Dmitry Kovalsky, Vitaly Shchukin, Natalya Sleptsova-Koryakina — 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 mystery titles of 2017.