Verdict:What Is to Be Done? is a confirmed HIT based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.
With a rating of 8.0/10, it has delivered a compelling experience for fans of the Drama, TV Movie genre.
Answer: Yes, What Is to Be Done? is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 156 minutes and offers a solid storyline that appeals to general audiences. Bottom Line: Highly recommended!
Last updated: January 12, 2026
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1971, What Is to Be Done? emerges as a significant entry in the Drama, TV Movie domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of TV adaptation of Nikolai Chernyshevsky's novel about Vera Pavlovna, a woman who escapes the control of her family and arranged marriage to seek economic independence. Unlike standard genre fare, What Is to Be Done? attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a refreshing take on its central themes.
The screenplay, appearing to prioritize character depth and thematic resonance, sets a stage where the stakes feel personal yet universal. Under the directorial eye of Pavel Reznikov, every scene is crafted to contribute to the atmospheric weight of the story, ensuring that the Drama elements serve the larger narrative arc rather than just providing spectacle.
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and What Is to Be Done? features a noteworthy lineup led by Aleksandr Lazarev. Supported by the likes of Yola Sanko and Leonid Bronevoy, the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: The lead actors exhibit a remarkable range, navigating the emotional peaks and valleys of their respective characters with a precision that makes every motivation feel earned. The chemistry between the leads is particularly effective, serving as the emotional glue that holds the more complex plot points together. In the broader context of 1971 cinema, these performances stand as a testament to the evolving standards of acting within the Drama, TV Movie space.
From a technical perspective, What Is to Be Done? is a marvel of 21st-century filmmaking. The cinematography, utilizing a vibrant and expressive color palette, significantly enhances the world-building aspects of the production. Each frame seems calculated to guide the viewer's emotional response, whether through wide, sweeping vistas or tight, claustrophobic close-ups that emphasize character isolation.
Technical Excellence: The production design and visual effects provide a solid foundation for the story, ensuring that the world of the film feels lived-in and authentic, even when the narrative logic falters. Furthermore, the sonic landscape—comprising both the score and sound design—adds a layer of subtextual narrative that rewards attentive viewers.
The structure of What Is to Be Done? follows a sophisticated deliberate pace. Over its 156 minute duration, the film manages to balance exposition with action in a way that remains intellectually stimulating. The second act, often the most difficult to manage, serves here as a crucible for character growth, leading toward a climax that feels both inevitable and surprising.
Critically, the editing choices by the team help maintain a narrative tension that rarely wavers. While some may find the extended runtime testing, the investment pays off for audiences who appreciate a narrative that isn`t afraid to breathe and explore its more nuanced corners.
Beyond its immediate entertainment value, What Is to Be Done? resonates with contemporary social and cultural themes prevalent in the Drama landscape of 2026. It addresses concepts such as human resilience and ethical ambiguity with a level of maturity that is often missing from major releases.
This cultural relevance is likely why it has garnered a 8/10 rating on our platform. Films like this bridge the gap between niche interest and global appeal, proving that stories rooted in specific human experiences can find a home with audiences worldwide, from the US and UK to India and beyond.
Analyzing the plot deeper, What Is to Be Done? is more than just its synopsis. It is an inquiry into the complexity of relationships. TV adaptation of Nikolai Chernyshevsky's novel about Vera Pavlovna, a woman who escapes the control of her family and arranged marriage to seek economic independence.
The philosophical underpinnings of the third act suggest a worldview that is standard for its genre yet executed with high professional polish. This is not just a commercial product; it is a piece of art that invites discussion long after the credits have finished rolling.
In summary, our editorial assessment of What Is to Be Done? (1971) is overwhelmingly acclaimed. With an audience rating of 8/10 and strong performance metrics in the Drama, TV Movie categories, it stands as a mandatory watch for any serious cinema lover.
Whether you choose to experience it for the stellar performances from Aleksandr Lazarev, Yola Sanko, Leonid Bronevoy or the visual majesty of its technical execution, What Is to Be Done? is a significant contribution to the cinema of 1971. It represents the kind of filmmaking that movieMx is proud to champion—original, bold, and ultimately, deeply human.
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 8/10, and global collection metrics, What Is to Be Done? stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1971 cinematic year.
What Is to Be Done? is considered a hit based on audience response and box office performance. With a rating of 8/10, it's highly recommended for fans of Drama, TV Movie movies.
Yes, What Is to Be Done? is definitely worth watching! It's a must-watch hit for fans of Drama, TV Movie cinema.
What Is to Be Done? may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
What Is to Be Done? is considered a hit based on audience response and box office performance. With a rating of 8/10, it's highly recommended for fans of Drama, TV Movie movies.
Yes, What Is to Be Done? is definitely worth watching! It's a must-watch hit for fans of Drama, TV Movie cinema.
What Is to Be Done? may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
What Is to Be Done? is a Drama, TV Movie movie that follows: TV adaptation of Nikolai Chernyshevsky's novel about Vera Pavlovna, a woman who escapes the control of her family and arranged marriage to seek economic independence....
What Is to Be Done? is classified as Drama, TV Movie. We recommend checking the official age rating before watching with children.
What Is to Be Done? is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
TV adaptation of Nikolai Chernyshevsky's novel about Vera Pavlovna, a woman who escapes the control of her family and arranged marriage to seek economic independence.
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