The main flaw (to my mind) shows its grisly head near the end of this movie: when Gogol comes to the church and meets the two Ivans. The chorus sounds stupid thus greatly damaging the quality of the whole picture. Of course those were the Soviet times with the strict attitude against religion, but still they could have shot the scene with some respect at least. No wonder that the same year we found ourselves up to our ears in the bloodiest war of the 20th century.The scene that shows one of the Ivans assaulting his neighbour's property is not well filmed. It is too dark and you can only guess what is happening.I also think that the Gogol's face is not up to the original. The chin is too heavy. But maybe I'm wrong here.Another downer is the author's voice behind the screen. It is not the first movie spoiled to me by the narrator's voice. It makes it all look artificial.Watch "Revizor" (1952) and "Gore ot uma" (1952) instead of this so-so production.5 out of 10. Thanks for attention.