Russian Detective

After seasoned swindler Anatoly Papik was taken into custody in the courtroom, his relatives and accomplices decide to flee to hot countries, away from sin. The wife goes to Greece, the boss goes to Spain, and the “sixes” Shiloh and Bubble go to Turkey. Imagine the surprise of the two scoundrels when, on the Mediterranean coast, they come face to face with Papik, who theoretically should be “steaming on a bunk.” After certain search activities, it turns out that this is not Papik, but his exact copy, the Englishman Michael Smith. The scammers come up with a cunning plan to replace the “twin” Smith with Papik, who is languishing in prison.

Directed by Mikhail Kokshenov, Russian Detective leans on a strong ensemble — Vladimir Nosik, Natalya Khorokhorina, Mikhail Kokshenov — 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 2004.