Philip Kirkorov is set to star in the remake of the classic Russian comedy Ivan Vasilyevich Changes Everything!, which is slated to premiere on December 31. In the film, the celebrated singer returns to the screen in the role of Tsar Peter I, following a long tradition of portraying the iconic ruler in cinema and television projects. This update was reported by kp.ru, a major Russian news outlet.
In discussing the part, Kirkorov remarked that the persona and brand of Peter I have long been attached to his artistic identity. He noted that he has repeatedly embraced the character of the first Emperor of All Russia across various film and TV appearances, bringing a blend of ambition, authority, and a touch of theatrical flair to the role.
kp.ru notes that Kirkorov’s association with the imperial figure is not new. His most recent portrayal of Peter I came in 2022, in the sketch comedy How Peter Went to Holland and Worked at a Shipyard, where the comedic framing allowed him to explore the emperor’s character in a contemporary light.
Joining Kirkorov in the cast are Timur Batrutdinov, Maxim Lagashkin, Demis Karibidis, Oleg Vereshchagin, and artist Anna Asti, among others. The project is directed by Misha Semichev and Roman Kim, who bring a fresh interpretation while honoring the original humor that made the film a cult favorite. The ensemble cast is assembled to navigate the film’s playful premise with warmth and wit.
The plot centers on the beloved character Shurik, who attempts to bring Tsar Ivan the Terrible into the present with the help of a time machine. Complications arise when the device intermittently malfunctions, sending the protagonists to various countries and different historical periods. Each accidental journey reshapes events in surprising ways, blending slapstick comedy with imaginative scenarios and a touch of historical satire.
The project builds on a tradition of time-travel farce, where improbable scenarios are used to explore cultural eras with humor and a gentle sense of nostalgia. While the time machine drives the comedic engine, the heart of the film lies in the interactions between unlikely travelers and the moral questions that surface when past and present collide. The creators aim to deliver a film that feels both beloved to longtime fans and accessible to new audiences seeking lighthearted entertainment.
Beyond the on-screen adventure, the production reflects the broader trend of reviving cherished Soviet-era comedies for modern audiences. The remake nods to the original’s charm while infusing contemporary sensibilities, stagecraft, and performances that resonate with today’s viewers. The filmmakers emphasize character chemistry, timing, and the playful spirit that made the original a staple of genre cinema. As fans anticipate the new take, anticipation is tempered by respect for the source material and excitement for the fresh interpretation that the cast brings to the iconic roles.
Meanwhile, the program’s broader appeal lies in its blend of humor, historical parody, and family-friendly comedy. Viewers can expect a film that forgives the complexities of time travel while leaning into the warmth of its ensemble and the charisma of its lead performers. The production team has signaled a careful balance between homage and innovation, aiming to deliver an entertaining experience that both honors tradition and invites contemporary laughter. The release promises a cinematic event that invites audiences to reminisce while enjoying a modern twist on an enduring classic.
In summation, the remake of Ivan Vasilyevich Changes Everything! brings together a high-energy cast and an experienced creative team under the direction of Semichev and Kim. The narrative remains anchored in a mischievous premise—time travel misfires that spark comic misadventures across eras. With Kirkorov embodying Peter I once again and a lineup of versatile performers, the film aspires to become a memorable entry in the canon of lighthearted Russian cinema.
As with any project of this scale, audiences are encouraged to stay tuned for further details about release dates, trailer drops, and behind-the-scenes insights that illuminate how the new version honors the classic while offering something distinctly contemporary.