
The Russian Cracker
Synopsis
Russia is grappling with a critical issue: they have become the country with the most at large serial killers in the world particularly concentrated in Rostov, the same city that witnessed Andrei Chikatilo's infamous killing spree. In response, law enforcement has turned to Dr. Alexander Bukhanovsky, a prominent psychiatrist and criminal profiler, who is implementing radical measures to understand the root causes of this phenomenon and develop effective solutions. Within Dr. Bukhanovsky's clinic, we encounter three of his young patients: Edward and Igor, whose families express deep concerns about their disturbing fantasies, and 'Mischa', who has perpetrated acts of torture and sexual assault. Dr. Bukhanovsky's approach is groundbreaking, offering treatment to potential serial offenders. However, critics argue that by keeping individuals like 'Mischa' anonymous, he may inadvertently shield them from public awareness and accountability, prompting debate over the ethics of his methods.
Top Cast
Explore Star Directory →Alexander Bukhanovsky
Self - Dr. Alexander Bukhanovsky
Veronika Hyks
Narrator
Diran Meghreblian
Voice
Michael Poole
Voice
Renat Levenstein
Voice
Rita Weissman
Voice
Vladimir Krishtopa
Self - Serial Killer
Andrei Chikatilo
Self - Serial Killer (Archive footage)
Ion Andreevich Prodan
Self - Serial Killer (Archive footage)
Amurkhan Yandiyev
Self - Head of Serious Crimes Unit
Sasha Chepel
Self - Aleksandr Chepel’s Father
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- James Kent
- Original Title
- The Russian Cracker
- Country of Origin
- Russia, United Kingdom
- Spoken Languages
- English, Russian
- Runtime
- 50m
- Production Studios
- BBC
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
James Kent
Malcolm Daniel
James Kent
Department Leadership Roster
Malcolm Daniel
Editor
James Kent
Producer
James Kent
Director
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for The Russian Cracker.
Similar Titles to The Russian Cracker
Movies sharing stylistic DNA, tone, and thematic storytelling
More Like The Russian Cracker
Recommended titles matching themes, cast, and genres.












Frequently Asked Questions About The Russian Cracker
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is The Russian Cracker about?
Russia is grappling with a critical issue: they have become the country with the most at large serial killers in the world particularly concentrated in Rostov, the same city that witnessed Andrei Chikatilo's infamous killing spree. In response, law enforcement has turned to Dr. Alexander Bukhanovsky, a prominent psychiatrist and criminal profiler, who is implementing radical measures to understand the root causes of this phenomenon and develop effective solutions. Within Dr. Bukhanovsky's clinic, we encounter three of his young patients: Edward and Igor, whose families express deep concerns about their disturbing fantasies, and 'Mischa', who has perpetrated acts of torture and sexual assault. Dr. Bukhanovsky's approach is groundbreaking, offering treatment to potential serial offenders. However, critics argue that by keeping individuals like 'Mischa' anonymous, he may inadvertently shield them from public awareness and accountability, prompting debate over the ethics of his methods.
Who directed The Russian Cracker?
The Russian Cracker was directed by James Kent.
Who stars in The Russian Cracker?
The principal cast of The Russian Cracker includes Alexander Bukhanovsky, Veronika Hyks, Diran Meghreblian, Michael Poole, Renat Levenstein.
When was The Russian Cracker released and how long is it?
The Russian Cracker was released in 1999 with a total runtime of 50m.



















