Joseph Stalin was the leader of the Soviet Union. The film accurately portrays his paranoia, brutality, and the atmosphere of fear that surrounded his rule.

Nikita Khrushchev succeeded Stalin as the leader of the Soviet Union. The film accurately portrays his role in the power struggle following Stalin's death and his eventual rise to power.

Georgy Malenkov briefly served as the leader of the Soviet Union after Stalin's death. The film accurately portrays his initial position as Stalin's successor and his involvement in the power struggle.

Lavrentiy Beria, head of the NKVD, was arrested and executed by his rivals.

Georgy Zhukov played a crucial role in Beria's downfall.

Vyacheslav Molotov was a longtime supporter of Stalin. The film accurately portrays his role in the Soviet government.

The film centers on the power struggle following Stalin's death on March 5, 1953, a real historical event.

The film depicts the chaotic jockeying for power among members of the Politburo, including Khrushchev, Beria, Malenkov, and others.

While based on historical events, many conversations and specific incidents are fictionalized or exaggerated for comedic effect.

The film compresses and rearranges some events for narrative convenience.

The film accurately portrays the fear and sycophancy that characterized Stalin's inner circle.

The film satirizes the absurdity and inefficiency of the Soviet bureaucracy, particularly in the wake of Stalin's death.