Irina Bezrukova, once married to Sergei Bezrukov, recalls the moment of surprise when colleague Alexander Petrov stepped into the role of Sergei Yesenin for Klim Shipenko’s film December. The actress shared her impressions with a Russian media outlet, noting that Petrov does not physically resemble the famed poet, yet carries a certain nerve that allows him to inhabit the character in a natural, almost seamless way. This blend of presence and instinct caught her attention and is commonly cited by cast members when discussing the film’s casting choices.
Bezrukova also describes her own involvement in the story as one of the women who admires Yesenin and is drawn to him. She reflects on how poets served as icons of their era, shaping the cultural imagination of the time. Yesenin, renowned for his extraordinary talent, faced a difficult parental reception early in life, with his parents reportedly hoping for a stable, well‑paying vocation rather than a poet. Yet Yesenin’s enduring legacy reveals how a gifted voice can rise to global recognition, transforming personal struggle into universal art. This dual perspective—admiration from admirers and the artist’s own evolving identity—helps frame the film’s emotional landscape. Attribution: production interviews and industry commentary
The production history surrounding December has been the subject of significant attention. Announcements indicated that the project, led by Klim Shipenko and featuring Alexander Petrov in the lead, aimed to capture the essence of Yesenin’s era while reaching broad audiences. The distribution discussions emphasized a strategy to maximize the film’s commercial impact, balancing artistic authenticity with broad market appeal. While initial release plans suggested a fall 2022 premiere, subsequent updates reflected the typical delays and adjustments common in large-scale cinema projects, with projections and scheduling evolving as production progressed. Attribution: studio press materials and distribution statements
Overall, the public dialogue around December centers on the interplay between a renowned figure from Russia’s literary past and a modern cinematic interpretation brought to life by a contemporary cast. The conversations highlight how actors like Petrov navigate iconic roles by leveraging their unique on-screen presence, while the broader narrative explores the poet’s allure, personal complexities, and lasting influence on culture. As the film moves through production milestones, observers remain interested in how Shipenko translates Yesenin’s poetic spirit into a modern cinematic experience that resonates with today’s audiences. Attribution: industry coverage and release strategy briefs