Ivan Vasilyevich Changes His Profession
Synopsis
A scientist builds a time machine and accidentally sends his apartment complex manager and a petty burglar to 16th century Moscow, while Tsar Ivan the Terrible travels to 1973.
Principal Cast8

Aleksandr Demyanenko
Aleksandr 'Shurik' Timofeyev, inventor

Yuriy Yakovlev
Ivan the Terrible / Ivan Vasilievich Bunsha, building superintendent

Leonid Kuravlyov
Жорж Милославский / князь Милославский

Mikhail Pugovkin
Film Director Yakin

Vladimir Etush
Anton Semyonovich Shpak, dentist

Savely Kramarov
Feofan the diak

Natalya Krachkovskaya
Uliana Andreevna Bunsha, superintendent's wife

Natalya Seleznyova
Zinaida, Shurik's wife
Media19
Backdrops
Posters
Director

Leonid Gaidai
Director →
Trailer
Keywords
Where to Watch
Stream
Rent
Buy
External Links
Reviews1
The film is praised for its manic and fast-paced energy, as well as its unique blend of slapstick and clever humor. It is considered an example of how comedy can thrive and even contain subtle social commentary under a repressive regime. The use of physical comedy, sped-up chase scenes, and goofy music, a trademark of director Gaidai, contributes to the film's comedic appeal. While some of the cultural references and in-jokes may be lost on Western audiences, the film's artistic richness and entertainment value have made it a widely loved comedy. The film features strong performances, particularly from Yuri Yakovlev, who masterfully plays both the timid apartment manager and the demanding Tsar. The elaborate castle settings and colorful cinematography also add to the film's charm.
Sep 15, 2025




































