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Lev Tolstoy

Name: Lev Tolstoy
Director: Sergei Gerasimov
Released: 1984
Duration: 168 min

Representation Score

2.9/10

Limited

1984

Director

Sergei Gerasimov

Runtime

168 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Sergei Gerasimov’s biopic is a deeply psychological exploration of a man challenging his social standing. It excels by highlighting the tension between personal conscience and the rigid structures of Russian aristocracy and religion. Though the film is limited by its historical context, it offers a modern perspective on class and religious hierarchies. It transcends the typical 'great man' narrative by delving into the breakdown of family and societal bonds. Ultimately, the film's strength lies in its intellectual complexity and its portrayal of a protagonist striving for an ethical path independent of societal norms.

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Category Breakdown

Does Lev Tolstoy have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film follows the historical biography of Leo Tolstoy and his marriage to Sofia Andreevna without depicting any non-straight relationships or same-sex intimacy.

How does Lev Tolstoy portray gender?

Fair

The story examines the power dynamics and tensions within Tolstoy's household. It highlights the intellectual influence of women despite the limitations of 19th-century society.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Lev Tolstoy?

Limited

The casting reflects the social hierarchy of 19th-century Russia, showing the divide between nobility and peasants but maintaining a uniform ethnic background.

How does Lev Tolstoy represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The film criticizes the Russian Orthodox Church and the landed aristocracy as sources of systemic conflict. It emphasizes Tolstoy's pursuit of a secular, ascetic lifestyle.

Does Lev Tolstoy include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no depiction of physical or neurodivergent disabilities playing a central role in the narrative.

Present on Screen

Offers a nuanced look at gender power dynamics and women's intellectual influence.
Provides a sophisticated critique of traditional religious and aristocratic institutions.
Examines the intricate relationship between wealth, class, and personal morality.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-straight perspectives.
Maintains a homogeneous ethnic casting reflective of its specific historical period.
Does not feature significant portrayals of physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Official Synopsis

This is the story of last years of Leo Tolstoy's life at his mansion in Yasnaya Polyana. He is surrounded by his family, friends, acquaintances and absolute strangers who are coming to the great man and artist from all over the world. But in his sleepless nights he dreams about his happy youthful years and the crucial, hard ones. And everything ends with his tragic departure from Yasnaya Polyana and his death at an obscure little station of Astapovo.

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