Watch Adventures of a Dentist

Adventures of a Dentist is a 1965 Soviet dark comedy film directed by Elem Klimov. The movie stars Andrey Myagkov as the central character, alongside a talented supporting cast that includes Vera Vasilyeva, Alisa Freyndlikh, Panteleymon Krymov, and Andrei Petrov. The film showcases a satirical and sometimes surreal depiction of Soviet society through the eyes of a simple and sincere dentist who faces ethical challenges and moral contradictions within his profession and personal life.

The film's narrative centers around Sergey Tsutsulin, portrayed by Andrey Myagkov, a gentle and idealistic dentist who believes in maintaining the highest standards of medical ethics. Sergey has a natural talent that allows him to spot dental problems with an uncanny accuracy, and his virtuosity in curing patients' dental troubles without inflicting any pain soon earns him the adoration of those he treats. His reputation as a painless dentist spreads rapidly, attracting a large number of patients who are eager to experience his services. However, this peculiar ability and his increasing popularity also bring unforeseen consequences that complicate his life.

As Sergey continues to practice his profession with passion and commitment, he starts to sense a growing unease among his colleagues. The dental community, steeped in mediocrity and complacency, becomes envious of Sergey's skills and popularity. They view his exceptional talents with suspicion and disdain, and as professional jealousy simmers, it begins to manifest in various ways.

Vera Vasilyeva, Alisa Freyndlikh, Panteleymon Krymov, and Andrei Petrov deliver standout performances as characters who represent different facets of the society and professional world that Sergey operates in. These characters embody the values and ethos of the societal structure at the time and serve to either support or challenge Sergey's ideals and beliefs, further complicating his journey.

Sergey's personal life also mirrors his professional struggles. While he approaches his work with honesty and a desire to do good, his interactions with friends, family, and love interests reflect the complexities of human relationships. These aspects of his life are not without their own troubles, which are accentuated by the mounting pressures of his career.

The movie gradually escalates the tension between individual excellence and collective mediocrity, which resonates with the broader theme of the individual versus the collective that often played out in Soviet cinema. It presents a deeper commentary on socialism and the potential stifling of personal talent for the sake of conformity. The narrative delves into the idea that exceptionalism can be perceived as a threat in a society that ostensibly seeks to level the playing field, and it poses questions about the nature of success and the price of integrity in such a system.

Klimov's direction masterfully combines humor with existential angst, creating a film that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. He skillfully balances the elements of satire with a storytelling approach that is both compassionate and critical. The cinematography complements the mood of the film, offering a visual style that matches the nuanced narrative with subtle artistry.

Throughout the film, Klimov makes use of symbolism and metaphor to add layers of meaning to the story. The motif of teeth and dentistry serves as an allegory for broader social and psychological concerns, reflecting the condition of the individual psyche and societal health. Furthermore, the absurdity often present in the plot and character interactions invokes the traditions of satiric literature, enabling the film to pose serious questions under the guise of comedic situations.

Adventures of a Dentist remains a significant piece in the oeuvre of Soviet cinema not only for its commentary on the era in which it was made but also for its timeless exploration of the human condition. The moral quandaries and the comedic undertones come together to create a powerful narrative that resonates with audiences, inviting them to reflect on the price of maintaining one's principles in the face of collective opposition.

The deservedly praised performances, particularly by Andrey Myagkov, along with Klimov's adept handling of the subject matter, make Adventures of a Dentist a movie that stands the test of time. Both a product of its era and a transcendent work of art, the film serves as a showcase of Soviet cinema's ability to navigate and critique its own culture through the language of film.