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Plot Summary

Discover the intricate plot of The Machine (2023). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.


At a bustling Moscow casino, a notorious gangster known as Jovan Savic finds himself captivated by the side-splitting anecdotes of Bert Kreischer. Among these amusing tales is Bert’s infamous “Machine” story, which reveals the wild escapades he encountered with the Russian mafia during his college days, all while hinting at deeper, more intricate layers woven beneath the humor. Jovan becomes increasingly convinced that Bert possesses something he desperately desires.

The narrative delves into Bert’s journey as a comedian, showcasing the intricate balance he strikes between pursuing his comedic aspirations and fulfilling his family obligations. His evolving relationship with LeeAnn adds significant emotional depth to his responsibilities as a father to Sasha and Tatiana. The story reaches a boiling point when a scandal erupts following Sasha’s arrest at one of Bert’s lavish parties, thrusting the family into the unforgiving glare of the media spotlight.

During Sasha’s birthday celebration, latent feelings of inadequacy resurface, intensified by the sudden appearance of Albert, Bert’s estranged father. Albert’s critical remarks about the “Machine” narrative exacerbate the family’s tensions, especially when Irina becomes adamant about shielding Sasha from a DJ with ties to the menacing Jovan.

Reluctantly, Bert must join forces with Albert and Irina for a perilous journey to Moscow. In the process, he rekindles his friendship with Sponge, who fondly reminisces about Bert’s notoriety, leading to a lighthearted slap fight. Flashbacks, vividly brought to life by Jimmy Tatro, illustrate Bert’s younger days, notably a disastrous train heist from 1999 involving a criminal named Igor, which not only tarnished his relationships but also solidified his infamous status.

As their adventure unfolds through the vibrant yet perilous streets of Russia, Bert unwittingly gains notoriety for a local beer. The plot thickens when Irina’s brother, Vanya, becomes entangled in a tumultuous family feud. With tensions escalating, the sound of gunfire forces Bert and Albert to seek refuge, while Irina’s courageous rescue effort dramatically alters the course of their escapade.

In a crucial moment at a train station, Bert’s chaotic past resurfaces, raising suspicions about Igor’s intentions as he clutches a significant pocket watch. Despite the allure of his tumultuous past, Bert remains steadfast in his desire to distance himself from that life. The situation intensifies when Sponge betrays Irina, prompting Albert to embody courage in an effort to protect his son.

In an unforeseen turn of events, Bert receives aid from the genuine Igor, who decides to abandon his criminal lifestyle for the sake of his family. Irina’s path to healing paves the way for a heartfelt discussion about their father-daughter relationship. With Sasha’s arrest broadcasted for all to witness, Bert undertakes a sincere quest to redefine his identity beyond his party-centric persona.

In the quest for renewal, Bert and Irina set out to rescue Albert, who has been captured by Irina’s brother Alexei. In a high-stakes confrontation, Albert hands Bert a bottle of vodka, urging him to “reclaim your essence as ‘the motherfucking Machine.’” This pivotal moment ignites Bert’s determination, culminating in an electrifying showdown against the criminals.

As their familial bonds deepen, Irina inspires her father to treasure the pocket watch, creating a path for an unexpected reconciliation that reinforces her significance within the family structure. With newfound confidence, Irina prepares to lead.

Upon returning home, Bert and Albert confront the daunting challenge of healing their fractured relationship, with Bert making a promise to be a more engaged husband and father. Through transformative therapy sessions, he learns to embrace the enlightening experiences he encountered in Russia, vowing to share an enthralling and rejuvenated version of his legendary “Machine” tale.

Timeline

Track the key events of The Machine (2023) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.


Bert's Comedy Success

Bert Kreischer, a well-known comedian, captivates audiences with his humorous storytelling, particularly about his past adventures, including the infamous 'Machine' story.

Moscow Casino

Jovan's Fascination

Jovan Savic, a gangster in Moscow, becomes enthralled by Bert's stories, sensing that Bert possesses something he desperately craves.

Moscow

Family Dynamics

As Bert juggles his rising comedy career, he also faces the challenges of being a husband to LeeAnn and a father to daughters Sasha and Tatiana.

Sasha's Arrest

A major scandal ignites when Bert's daughter Sasha is arrested during one of his extravagant parties, drawing unwelcome media attention to the family.

Albert's Arrival

Bert's estranged father, Albert, unexpectedly shows up at Sasha's birthday party, creating friction with his critical comments about Bert's 'Machine' story.

Journey to Moscow

Bert reluctantly teams up with Albert and Irina to travel to Moscow, navigating their strained relationships and past disappointments.

Moscow

Reconnecting with Friends

Upon arrival in Russia, Bert reunites with Sponge, who humorously reminisces about Bert's notorious past, bringing a light-hearted moment amidst the tensions.

Moscow

Flashbacks of the Past

Flashbacks reveal Bert's chaotic college days, including a notorious train heist in 1999 involving a criminal named Igor, highlighting his transition to a comedic persona.

1999

Gunfire and Refuge

While navigating the dangerous streets of Russia, Bert and Albert find themselves under gunfire, forcing them to seek shelter and re-evaluate their situation.

Moscow

Irina's Heroism

In a turning point, Irina courageously intervenes to rescue the group, showcasing her strength and understanding of familial loyalty.

Confronting Igor

At a train station, Bert's past resurfaces when Igor reappears, prompting deep suspicion but ultimately leading Bert to assert his desire for a new life.

Train Station

Betrayal by Sponge

Tensions rise when Sponge betrays Irina, prompting old wounds to resurface and forcing Albert to muster courage to defend his family.

A True Transformation

Bert is unexpectedly aided by the genuine Igor, who renounces his criminal past, symbolizing a chance at redemption for all involved.

Rescue Mission

Bert and Irina set out to rescue Albert from Irina's brother Alexei, leading to a climactic confrontation filled with high stakes and emotional revelations.

Healing and Growth

Returning home, Bert and Albert work on mending their fractured bond, with Bert promising to be a better husband and father while embracing his journey of growth.

Characters

Meet the characters that bring The Machine (2023) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.


Bert Kreischer

Bert Kreischer is a stand-up comedian whose humor masks deeper insecurities and familial obligations. His journey through the narrative reveals his struggles with balancing career aspirations and family life, particularly as he faces tensions with his father and the repercussions of his wild past. Bert's evolution throughout the film showcases his desire for personal growth and connection with his loved ones.

🎤 Comedian 👨‍👧‍👦 Father 🤹‍♂️ Entertainer

Irina

Irina is a strong and protective figure who navigates the complexities of her family's struggles and the influence of dangerous ties to gangsters. Her character amplifies the emotional stakes in the narrative, particularly through her relationship with her father, Bert. Irina's journey of healing and empowerment significantly impacts the family's dynamics, encouraging growth and reconciliation.

👩‍👧 Protector 💪 Strong-willed

Albert

Albert is Bert's estranged father, whose critical attitude brings tension to their relationship. He represents the generational conflict and the weight of familial expectations, prompting Bert to confront his past. Throughout the film, Albert's journey toward understanding and support showcases the transformative power of reconciling with family.

👴 Estranged Father 💔 Conflict

Sasha

Sasha is Bert's daughter whose arrest sparks a media frenzy and thrusts the family into turmoil. Her character embodies the trials of youth and the challenges faced by families in the public eye. The emotional depth of Sasha's character adds to the film's exploration of family, responsibility, and the consequences of one's choices.

👧 Daughter 🚨 Troubled Youth

Tatiana

Tatiana is a member of Bert's family whose presence adds emotional layers to the story. As Bert navigates his roles as a husband and father, Tatiana's character embodies the complexities of family ties and the need for connection amidst chaos.

👩 Family 💞 Emotional

Setting

Uncover the settings of The Machine (2023), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.


Time period

1999

The movie partially unfolds in 1999, a time marked by significant political and social changes in Russia following the collapse of the Soviet Union. This period saw a rise in organized crime and dramatic shifts in societal norms, which set the stage for Bert’s chaotic escapades with the Russian mafia and the ensuing familial challenges.

Location

Moscow

Moscow is the vibrant capital of Russia, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The city boasts a bustling nightlife and is famous for its casinos, where high-stakes games often attract the daring and adventurous. It serves as a backdrop for thrilling adventures and intense exchanges of power, making it a key setting in the film.

🏙️ City 🎲 Casino

Themes

Explore the core themes of The Machine (2023). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.


👪

Family

Family dynamics are central to the film, examining the complexities of relationships across generations. Bert's struggles to balance his comedic ambitions with familial responsibilities highlight the challenges many face in prioritizing loved ones. The narrative underscores the idea that despite personal aspirations, family bonds require nurturing and understanding.

🎭

Identity

The theme of identity plays a crucial role as Bert grapples with his past as 'the Machine' and his present responsibilities as a husband and father. His journey reveals the conflict between public persona and personal values, forcing him to reassess who he truly wants to be beyond the laughter and fame. This theme resonates deeply, showcasing the universal quest for self-definition.

🔥

Redemption

Redemption is a prominent theme as characters seek to reconcile their past actions and move forward. Bert’s encounters in Moscow challenge him to confront his notorious reputation and strive for a more meaningful future. The film illustrates how moments of vulnerability can lead to transformational growth and renewed purpose.

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