Leviathan

The 2014 Russian social drama directed by Andrey Zvyagintsev tells the story of auto mechanic Nikolai Sergeyev (Aleksei Serebryakov), who lives with his wife Lilya (Elena Lyadova) and his son from a previous marriage, Roma (Sergey Pokhodaev), in the small coastal town of Pribrezhny. Their home, situated on the bay's shore, becomes the target of corrupt mayor Vadim Shelevyat (Roman Madyanov), who seeks to seize Nikolai's property under the guise of municipal needs, offering a meager compensation. Nikolai seeks help from his old army friend Dmitry Seleznyov (Vladimir Vdovichenkov), now a successful Moscow lawyer. Dmitry attempts to oppose the mayor using compromising materials but faces pressure and threats. The situation worsens with a personal drama: Lilya and Dmitry begin an affair, leading to conflicts and estrangement within the family. Ultimately, Lilya dies under mysterious circumstances, and Dmitry leaves town. Nikolai is left without support; his house is demolished, and he is unjustly convicted for his wife's murder and sent to prison. The film addresses themes of corruption, powerlessness, and human helplessness in the face of the state machine.