Michael Hoffman, director and writer of the screenplay, based on the novel by Jay Parini, brings to life the story of the tempestuous Tolstoy’s near the end of their 50 year marriage, starring a stellar cast of Christopher Plummer, Oscar nominated for his portrayal of Leo Tolstoy, and Helen Mirren also Oscar nominated for her role of his wife, Sofya Tolstoy. James McAvoy is the young man, Valentin Bulgakov, hired by Paul Giamatti’s character, Vladimir Chertkov, to spy on Count Tolstoy in the guise of Tolstoy’s personal secretary. Valentin discovers that Tolstoy may not actually practice in real life what he preaches. All of the dirty laundry and family drama comes out to make this a sharp, funny and highly entertaining historical drama with winning performances. Not to be missed!