The Blackout (2019), directed by Egor Baranov, is a Russian sci-fi thriller set in a post-apocalyptic world, combining elements of dystopian fiction with intense survival drama. Known for its gripping atmosphere and intense action sequences, the film has garnered attention for its unique take on the genre. It is based on the novel The Blackout by Dmitry Glukhovsky, the same author behind the popular Metro 2033 series.

Set in a future where most of the world has fallen into darkness due to a massive and unexplained blackout, the film follows a group of survivors who must navigate this dangerous new reality. The blackout affects not only communication but also power systems, leading to widespread chaos, both in the cities and in the countryside. Without electricity or communication, societal structures begin to collapse, and humanity faces the threat of extinction.

The story centers around Maksim (Aleksei Chadov), a former soldier who now works as a mercenary, helping people survive the aftermath of the blackout. Maksim finds himself caught up in a conspiracy involving a covert military operation, as well as a mysterious alien-like force that seems to be connected to the blackout.

As the survivors struggle to understand the cause of the blackout, they must also contend with violent raiders, corrupted government officials, and mysterious forces beyond human comprehension. Maksim teams up with Elena (Svetlana Khodchenkova), a scientist who holds key information about the nature of the blackout, as they race against time to unravel the mystery before it’s too late.

As the film progresses, the characters are forced to confront not just external threats but also internal dilemmas about the nature of survival, loyalty, and the ethics of their actions in a lawless world. The film explores themes of technology gone wrong, human resilience, and the dark side of a collapsing society.