The Riddles of «The Inspector General»

About This Movie

So, this half-hour doc, 'The Riddles of The Inspector General,' dives into the world of Meyerhold, who was quite the visionary. Vidas Siliunas narrates with this almost theatrical flair, recreating the essence of the original play. The pacing feels deliberate yet fluid, really capturing that unique blend of humor and absurdity that Meyerhold was known for. There’s a sense of exploration throughout, touching on the themes of bureaucracy and folly, while also reflecting on the nature of performance itself. It's like a peek behind the curtain, showcasing not just the work, but the genius mindset that brought it to life, along with some intriguing practical effects that add depth to the narrative.

This film is somewhat of an oddity in collector circles, given its short runtime and niche subject matter. There aren’t many formats available, which contributes to its scarcity; mostly floating around on obscure labels or as part of film festival collections. For those interested in Meyerhold or the evolution of theatrical performance, it's a valuable piece, but it’s not often highlighted in mainstream discussions, making it a unique find for dedicated collectors.