On January 22, 2025, the premiere of the adventurous comedy film "Vasily" took place at the iconic Cinema "Oktyabr" in Moscow, coinciding with significant personal news for lead actor Aleksandr Petrov. The 35-year-old actor made his first public appearance with his pregnant wife, Victoria Antonova, as the couple announced they are expecting their first child.
The film, directed by Dmitry Litvinenko, features Petrov playing the dual roles of twin brothers Vasily and Kolya, who were separated during childhood after being raised in different environments. The plot thickens when Vasily learns of Kolya’s troubles with the Mexican mafia and embarks on a mission to rescue him. The film highlights themes of family loyalty and adventure, but not without moments of comedy.
At the premiere, Antonova made headlines with her elegant appearance, donning a black dress with flowy white sleeves, perfectly accentuating her baby bump. Petrov complemented her look with a relaxed black suit and white shirt. The couple enjoyed the spotlight, posing affectionately on the red carpet, with Petrov leaning in to whisper joyfully to Antonova at one point, much to the delight of photographers.
"Vasily" offers audiences both humor and drama, as Vasily navigates through deceptions and family dynamics. While the film presents lively scenes embellished with cinematic theatrics, critics have noted some shortcomings in sustaining the initial comedic momentum.
The film’s background narrates how the twins were adopted at birth—one by American parents who took him to the United States, and the other left behind. This separation plays a pivotal role in the film's emotional core. The story quickly transitions from stark realities of life and death to intertwining romantic entanglements, resembling elements of classic soap operas.
Among those who attended the premiere were several notable figures from the entertainment industry, such as Milosh Bikovich and Victoria Isakova, marking it as one of the gala events of the season. The event included heartfelt speeches from the filmmakers, with Dmitry Litvinenko expressing gratitude to the cast and crew for their dedication and hard work.
After the premiere, Petrov’s transition from singlehood to fatherhood has sparked public interest. He and Antonova got married unexpectedly back in September 2023, surprising fans who believed he was still dating fellow actress Stasya Miloslavskaya. Reports suggested the split was abrupt, but Petrov has found new joy with Antonova.
Reflecting on the couples' dynamics, friends remarked on how Petrov has shown immense happiness since his relationship with Antonova blossomed. Eyewitnesses at the premiere noted, "He [Petrov] is shining with happiness next to her [Antonova]." This highlights how Petrov's personal life is flourishing even as he continues his career.
Petrov’s multifaceted performance as twins adds another layer to the film, showing different sides of his acting prowess. The audience's reception has been mixed, with some enjoying the comedic twists and turns, and others wishing for more depth to the narrative. Critics noted some tonal inconsistencies, where moments of gravity swiftly change to lighthearted slapstick.
Comparisons have been made between "Vasily" and popular Western comedies, indicating a desire for greater originality. Reflecting on his roles, Petrov stated, "I hope the audience will see both the humor and the heart within these characters," emphasizing his hopes for the film's impact.
The film is now showing across Russian cinemas, having been released to eager fans on January 23, 2025. Viewers are invited to witness this chaotic adventure, entwined with genuine familial bonds, as seen through Vasily's eyes.
The ambiance at the premiere serve to highlight not only the film's comedic elements but also the couple's joyful milestone. With both the film's reception and the news of their growing family, Aleksandr Petrov and Victoria Antonova are capturing the hearts of many, solidifying their special place both on-screen and off.