The 12 Chairs

Watch The 12 Chairs

  • 1971
  • 1 Season

The 12 Chairs is a Russian television show that follows the hilarious journey of a group of people trying to find a fortune hidden inside a set of chairs that were confiscated during the Bolshevik Revolution. The show, which is based on the novel of the same name by Ilya Ilf and Evgeny Petrov, is a satirical comedy that provides a glimpse into Soviet life during the 1920s.

The story begins with the death of the wealthy Vorobyaninov's mother-in-law, who had hidden her diamonds inside one of a set of twelve chairs that were confiscated during the Bolshevik Revolution. Vorobyaninov, who has fallen on hard times, sets out to find the chair that contains the diamonds so that he can reclaim his former life of luxury. But he is not the only one seeking the fortune. He is joined by Ostap Bender, a con artist who tricks Vorobyaninov into thinking that they are partners in the search for the treasure.

As they travel across Russia, the duo encounter a cast of colorful characters, including a former priest turned furniture restorer, a millionaire who lost all his money after the revolution, a corrupt Soviet official, and a woman who believes she is the rightful owner of the chair containing the jewels.

The 12 Chairs is a hilarious and entertaining show that delivers a unique perspective on Soviet life during the 1920s. The show is filled with witty dialogue, clever satire and hilarious antics that keep the audience engaged from beginning to end.

The two central characters, Vorobyaninov and Bender, are a study in contrasts. Vorobyaninov is a cultured man who is disheartened by the revolution and longs for his former life of luxury. Bender, on the other hand, is a smooth-talking con artist who is always looking for his next scheme. Despite their differences, the two characters form an unlikely friendship as they search for the treasure.

The show also features an outstanding supporting cast, including a corrupt Soviet official who is more interested in stealing the treasure for himself than he is in following the law, and a millionaire who has lost everything but his pride.

In addition to its comedic elements, The 12 Chairs also provides a fascinating insight into Soviet life during the 1920s. The show portrays a society that is still reeling from the tumultuous changes brought about by the Bolshevik Revolution. The characters are all struggling to find their place in this new society, and the show highlights the difficulties that ordinary people faced during this period of transition.

The show's production values are also impressive, with beautiful cinematography and period costumes that transport the viewer back in time. The music, too, is wonderful, with a score that captures the mood of the era perfectly.

Overall, The 12 Chairs is a fantastic television show that combines clever satire with hilarious comedy to deliver an unforgettable viewing experience. With its memorable characters, engaging plot, and unique insight into Soviet life during the 1920s, the show is a must-watch for fans of comedy and historical drama alike.

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Seasons
The 12 Chairs: The Meeting Continues
2. The 12 Chairs: The Meeting Continues
January 1, 1971
A destitute aristocrat does all he can to get back his family's chairs after he learns jewelry has been hidden inside them, all while navigating post-revolutionary Russia.
The 12 Chairs: The Ice Has Started
1. The 12 Chairs: The Ice Has Started
January 1, 1971
A destitute aristocrat does all he can to get back his family's chairs after he learns jewelry has been hidden inside them, all while navigating post-revolutionary Russia.
Description
  • Premiere Date
    January 1, 1971