A remake of the classic Soviet comedy, titled НеБриллиантовая рука, created quite the buzz as it prepared for its premiere just before New Year's Eve. This new version of Бриллиантовая рука aimed to blend nostalgia with modern technology but found itself at the center of controversy after its decision to drop the use of deepfake technology for one of its characters.
The film's producers initially planned to utilize deepfake technology to bring back the late actor Андрей Миронов, who originally starred as the iconic контрабандист Козодоев. According to THT, “Взглянув на предварительный монтаж картины, руководство приняло решение отменить план с использованием ИИ-технологий. Таким образом, дипфейк Андрея Миронова в картине использоваться не будет.” This decision came as the preview footage failed to meet creative expectations.
Aлексей Воробьев, taking on the role of Козодоев, dedicated himself to preparation by losing weight and imitating Миронов's gestures. РИА «Новости» noted, “Алексей Воробьев ради роли похудел и долго изучал движения Миронова, чтобы удачно его скопировать на экране.” His commitment to embodying the character was evident during the premiere, where he was met with favorable reactions.
The film revolves around Семён Семёныч Горбунков—played by Тимур Батрутдинов—who takes his adventure aboard a cruise ship. His latest stop is Dubai, and instead of hard-to-travel jewels, he ends up smuggling contemporary tech items such as smartphones and hair dryers.
Despite the initial sound concept for resurrecting Миронов through the magic of technology, audiences and critics alike voiced their opinions on the film and its representation of the classic story. While bringing nostalgia back, it sparked discussions about the ethics of using modern digital technologies like deepfake to resurrect performances of the past.
The mixed reactions to this transition from traditional storytelling to technologically-enhanced narratives raise questions about the adequacy and authenticity of artistic representation. Some viewers praised the attempt to incorporate modern themes and upgrades to classic tales, though others felt discomfort with the manipulation of actors' likenesses.
The film's premiere at the Каро 11 Октябрь theater showcased the challenges of marrying modern technology with classic works, and ТНТ remarked, “Именно в таком виде, с лицом и голосом Алексея Воробьева картину увидели зрители премьерного показа.” Despite the disappointment surrounding the repealing of the deepfake plan, the audience witnessed Vоробьев as himself, bringing the character quirks to life under their own interpretations.
Adaptations of cherished classics will always entice mixed feelings—viewers often align with nostalgia but also look for innovative storytelling. The response to НеБриллиантовая рука reflects this dichotomy, as audience interactions continue to crave authenticity and respect for the originals alongside artistic innovation.
With technology advancing rapidly, filmmakers must navigate the boundaries of tribute versus innovation, as they decide how to connect with both past experiences and contemporary relevance. The discussions surrounding the film accentuate the significance of character portrayal as not just the physical resemblance, but also the essence of the original artistry and the time period it encapsulated.
