Thawed Carp

The story follows Elena Mihailovna, a retired schoolteacher in a provincial town, who faces a life-altering diagnosis. Instead of succumbing to despair, she takes charge of her impending death by preparing for it in a way that would ease the burden on her son, Oleg, who has been absent from her life for years due to his work in the capital.

As she navigates her new reality, a surprising gift—a large carp—arrives, bringing unexpected changes to her life. This mix of drama and comedy provides a unique lens on how individuals cope with the inevitability of death while also reflecting on the complexities of familial bonds, especially between parents and children. The film's narrative is enriched by performances from an ensemble cast including Alisa Freyndlikh and Sergey Puskepalis, adding depth to the emotional journey.

For collectors, Thawed Carp offers a glimpse into contemporary Russian cinema and its storytelling, making it a noteworthy piece for those interested in diverse cinematic voices and themes.