This Russian drama encapsulates the 1917 Revolution as seen through the eyes of one "average man." The protagonist is an elderly scientist, Clement Timiryazev. Though well on in years, Timiryazev is among the first to align himself with the architects of the Revolution. Taking the loss of his revolt-minded students in stride (they're all too busy spreading the Bolshevik gospel in the streets to attend classes), Timiryazev elects to educate a group of Baltic sailors in the glories of communism. The film comes to an emotional climax when a group of Timiryazev's former colleagues, all disdainful of his new political outlook, are neatly squelched by a timely phone call from Lenin himself. Adding to the appeal of Deputy from the Baltic is the marvelous performance by N. Cherkasov as the aging Timiryazev. ~ Hal Erickson, Rovi