On March 3, the highly anticipated second season of the adventure detective series "Kazanova: On the Run" premiered on Channel One, continuing the escapades of the charming conman Igor Aprilev, known as Kazanova, played by Anton Khabarov. Set two years after the events of the original series, Kazanova is determined to shed his criminal past and start anew with a fresh identity. Despite being on the run, he faces constant challenges as he tries to leave behind his life of deceit.
After realizing his wanted poster has been taken down, Kazanova wastes no time and heads to Moscow, eager to make a fresh start. Meanwhile, his beloved Polina Novgorodtseva (Svetlana Khodchenkova) prepares to leave the capital for good with their children, Nikita and little Masha. The series takes place during the summer of 1980, amid the excitement of the upcoming Moscow Olympics, presenting Kazanova with both opportunities and hurdles.
“For Kazanova, the Olympics could be the perfect chance to score big,” said Khabarov, reflecting on the character's motivations. But he has vowed to turn over a new leaf, away from his notorious Don Juan antics. Unfortunately for him, Captain Shmakov, determined to bring the conman to justice, remains hot on his trail. Kazanova's path will take him across the country from Tselinograd to Palanga, all the mientras dodging arrest.
The shooting of the series was conducted across several notable locations including St. Petersburg, Vyborg, Moscow, and even Abkhazia. The filming at these sites captured the essence of Soviet-era settings, which are integral to the show's narrative. Notably, scenes were shot at the Mineralogical Museum named after A.E. Fersman, and the Alvar Aalto library, which added authenticity to the show.
Director Sergey Komarov expressed his enthusiasm for returning to the series, praising Khabarov for his deep connection with the character. He said, “Anton truly understands his role, making it possible for him to adapt to the various identities Kazanova takes on throughout the series.” This second season sees Kazanova transform himself repeatedly as he impersonates fortunes ranging from psychic to cosmonaut, to even mannequin.
The series’ creator, Dmitry Novoselov, has crafted compelling storylines filled with both humor and drama. The response to the first season paved the way for this continuation, and Novoselov aimed to explore the deeply intertwined lives of the characters involved with Kazanova.
“I had been eagerly awaiting the continuation of Kazanova’s adventures since there was quite the hiatus between seasons. The current script captivated me even more than the first,” Khabarov noted. “Kazanova has matured, undergoing significant challenges, and the women he meets have evolved too.”
The show also introduces new characters played by talented actors such as Olga Lapshina, Anna Banshchikova, and Maria Smolnikova, who add depth and intrigue to Kazanova’s world.
Viewers can expect to see Kazanova navigate romantic encounters, embody new identities, and engage with the stories of various women, each with her unique background and dreams. “I give them what they dream of,” Kazanova quips, highlighting his allure as he leaves his victims enchanted.
Kazanova’s escapades reflect not only his personal yearning for connection and love but also shed light on the broader societal expectations and struggles experienced by the women he encounters.
“We've worked hard to maintain the charming and lighthearted tone established during the first season,” Komarov concluded. “Audiences can look forward to delightful storytelling combined with performances from both returning and new actors. We promise to keep the viewers engaged!”
Catch the premiere of this eight-part detective series "Kazanova: On the Run" on Channel One, starting at 22:00 on March 3. Don't miss the blend of adventure, romance, and humor woven throughout Kazanova’s latest narrative, as he continues to outsmart both women and the law alike.