May 01, 2013

Vladimir Etush: Vakhtangov Legend


Vladimir Etush, a renowned actor at the Vakhtangov Theater, turns 90 on May 6. Etush played many roles in both cinema and the theater, but his most brilliant portrayal was that of Brighella, one of the four masked characters in the Vakhtangov classic, the unforgettable Princess Turandot.

Etush also left a deep imprint on Soviet-era cinema with his role as Comrade Saakhov in Leonid Gaidai’s Kidnapping, Caucasian Style (Кавказской пленницы). In this delightful 1967 comedy (stills below), a young woman is abducted for a Caucasian party boss. The rosy but not very realistic ending has the captive freed and the villainous Saakhov convicted. Few viewers failed to notice that the foolish and self-satisfied Saakhov bore a striking resemblance to Stalin, right down to his trademark tunic.


Digital Subscription Required

Get unlimited digital access for just $2 a month.

Don't have an account? signup

About Us

Russian Life is a publication of a 30-year-young, award-winning publishing house that creates a bimonthly magazine, books, maps, and other products for Russophiles the world over.

Latest Posts

Our Contacts

Russian Life
73 Main Street, Suite 402
Montpelier VT 05602

802-223-4955