The Darvish Detonates Paris

The Darvish Detonates Paris is a 1976 Soviet comedy film directed by Shamil Mahmudbeyov and Kamil Rustambeyov. It stars Adil Isgandarov as Hatamkhan agha, Sergei Yursky as Monsieur Jordan, and Mirza Babayev as Darvish Mastali Shah. The film was based on the satirical comedy A Story about the Botanist-doctor Monsieur Jordan and the Famous Sorcerer Dervish Mastali Shah, inspired from true events, by Azerbaijani playwright and poet Mirza Fatali Akhundov. The film criticizes the ignorance and backwardness in 19th century Azerbaijan. The character Monsieur Jordan is based on the accomplished French botanist Alexis Jordan. The Darvish Detonates Paris is often viewed as one of the most memorable films of Azerbaijani cinema. It holds an important place in the cultural heritage of Azerbaijan.