Maria Reisen’s feature film debut, “The Imposters,” is set to premiere in theaters on June 5th. The historical drama unfolds against the backdrop of the tumultuous events of October 1993 in Moscow.

The film centers on TV journalist Liza Korchakova, portrayed by Linda Lapinsh, who is assigned to investigate the death of her former teacher, director Boris Berkov, played by Sergei Shakurov. While exploring Berkov’s dacha, Liza discovers a recording of his unfinished film adaptation of Pushkin’s “Boris Godunov,” which he reinterpreted in the style of “The Godfather.”

Driven by a desire to honor her mentor, Liza decides to complete the film. As she immerses herself in the project, the real-life drama of the October 1993 events unfolds around her, mirroring the intensity of the Time of Troubles depicted in Pushkin’s tragedy.

The cast includes Egor Beroev, Anna Mikhalkova, and Alexander Adabashyan. The film was shot by cinematographer Mikhail Agranovich, known for his work on “Repentance” and “Little Tragedies.” Filming locations included Moscow and the Ostankino television center, where the events of October 1993 were recreated.

“The Imposters” was initially presented at the Moscow International Film Festival (MIFF) 2025 as part of the “Russian Premieres” competition. Director Maria Reisen, a graduate of VGIK, considers the film “partly autobiographical,” drawing on her childhood memories from 1993. Her personal connection to “Boris Godunov” extends to her great-grandfather, a Bolshoi Theatre soloist who performed in Mussorgsky’s opera.