The Next Reel Film Podcast

“The heavens have never seen such an ignominious Patsak as you, Violinist. It grieves me deeply.”
A Satirical Take on Soviet Society
Kin-Dza-Dza!, a 1986 Soviet science fiction comedy film directed by Georgiy Daneliya, was initially met with skepticism by Soviet authorities due to its satirical nature. However, Daneliya persevered and managed to get the film made, despite the challenges of filming in the hot Turkmenistan desert and dealing with bureaucratic red tape that delayed production. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we wrap up this return to our Soviet Sci-Fi series with a conversation about Daneliya’s 1986 film Kin-Dza-Dza!.
Diving into the Absurdist World of Kin-Dza-Dza!
We explore the film's absurdist humor and how it effectively satirizes various aspects of Soviet society, such as the rigid caste system, the limitations on free speech, and the devolution of language. We discuss how the film's low-budget, dystopian aesthetic contributes to its commentary on consumerism and environmentalism, drawing comparisons to other works like Idiocracy and the films of Terry Gilliam and Jean-Pierre Jeunet.
The Strengths of Soviet Science Fiction
Throughout our discussion, we highlight how Kin-Dza-Dza! exemplifies the strengths of Soviet science fiction in its ability to critique contemporary society through a futuristic lens. We also touch on:
  • The performances of the actors and their commitment to the absurdist tone
  • The film's clever use of practical effects and production design
  • The recurring jokes and their cultural significance, such as the "match math"
Kin-Dza-Dza! stands as a unique and entertaining entry in the Soviet science fiction canon, successfully blending biting social commentary with absurdist humor. Its ability to critique Soviet society while still being an engaging and entertaining film is a testament to Daneliya's skill as a filmmaker and the power of science fiction to reflect on contemporary issues. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!
Film Sundries

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Creators and Guests

Host
Andy Nelson
With over 25 years of experience in film, television, and commercial production, Andy has cultivated an enduring passion for storytelling in all its forms. His enthusiasm for the craft began in his youth when he and his friends started making their own movies in grade school. After studying film at the University of Colorado Boulder, Andy wrote, directed, and produced several short films while also producing indie features like Netherbeast Incorporated and Ambush at Dark Canyon. Andy has been on the production team for award-winning documentaries such as The Imposter and The Joe Show, as well as TV shows like Investigation Discovery’s Deadly Dentists and Nat Geo’s Inside the Hunt for the Boston Bombers. Over a decade ago, he started podcasting with Pete and immediately embraced the medium. Now, as a partner at TruStory FM, Andy looks forward to more storytelling through their wide variety of shows. Throughout his career, Andy has passed on his knowledge by teaching young minds the crafts of screenwriting, producing, editing, and podcasting. Outside of work, Andy is a family man who enjoys a good martini, a cold beer, a nice cup o’ joe. And always, of course, a great movie.
Host
Pete Wright
#Movies, #ADHD, & #Podcasting • Co-founder @trustory.fm🎥 The Next Reel Family of #Film Podcasts @thenextreel.com🎙️ Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast @takecontroladhd.com📖 Co-author of Unapologetically ADHD • https://unapologeticallyadhdbook.com

What is The Next Reel Film Podcast?

A show about movies and how they connect.
We love movies. We’ve been talking about them, one movie a week, since 2011. It’s a lot of movies, that’s true, but we’re passionate about origins and performance, directors and actors, themes and genres, and so much more. So join the community, and let’s hear about your favorite movies, too.
When the movie ends, our conversation begins.