The Russian Cracker

The Russian Cracker (1999) is a documentary film directed by James Kent.

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.

Cast

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