Set in Odessa circa 1910, a leader of the Bolshevik underground under the guise of a French industrialist enlists a group of artistic sympathizers to form a touring variety show. The dancers and chansonniers successfully perform throughout Russia a lively repertoire that raises some eyebrows but mostly charms their aristocratic audiences. Undercover, behind the scenes the close-knit group secretly distribute illegal printed publications which arrive through the Odessa Port. Financed by the Bolsheviks the subversive propaganda aims to spread ideas and information, amassing support in preparation of a coup d'état...
Inspiration for the cinematic story and script came from the memoirs of feminist revolutionary Alexandra Kollontai. From 1909 to 1915, Kollontai participated in the import of illegal weapons, disguised as theatrical props she smuggled guns into pre-revolutionary Russia. Despite the historical reference screenwriter Mikhail Melkumov and the director were both summoned by the Central Committee, who demanded that any references to weapons be cut out of the films script.
The main role was played by actor, poet, musician, Vladimir Vysotsky. Director Georgy Yungvald-Khilkevich said he embarked on the film project solely for the sake of the multi-talented artist, adjusting the script accordingly for Vysotsky. Especially for the film, Vladimir Vysotsky wrote "Bengalsky's Couplets" and "Romance by Candlelight", and he also performed the exuberant "Rose the Gymnasium Girl" to the verses of Alexander Repnikov. The popular film garnered over 40 million viewers, following on, the circulation of the soundtrack record with Vysotsky's songs from the film sold out instantly, as soon as it went on sale!
Enhancing this wonderful story is extravagant period costume and detail. High-spirited choreography which includes a bouncy can-can number is a delightful added attraction.
Expecting a light film about heroic revolutionaries The State Film Agency were unjustly hostile toward the finished material. The members at the time claimed the film was a Hollywood style mockery of the revolution and cast a shadow on the entire Soviet cinema.
I have raised my rating after this recent reappraisal. 'Dangerous Tour' is marvelous entertainment, with a host of fine performances, the film splendidly weaves throughout a thrilling and dramatic historical storyline. Highly enjoyable classic Soviet Cinema.
