Original title: Herr Pilipenko und Seine U-Boot
Copyright: 2006
Format: documentary narrative
Carrier: DVD
Color: color
Length: 90"       
Original language: Russian and some Sourzhyk
English subtitles: yes

Film crew
Director: Jan Hinrik Drevs, René Harder
Script writers: Jan Hinrik Drevs, René Harder
Producers: Jens Fintelmann, Thomas Seekamp
Cinematographer: Florian Melzer
Editor: Renate Ober

Film cast
Anya Pylypenko, Volodymyr Pylypenko

Synopsis
This tender-hearted documentary chronicles the unfathomable quest of a retired Ukrainian to build his own submarine and pilot it in the Black Sea.
Why would a retired middle-aged man who lives in a landlocked farming community in the middle of the Ukrainian steppes decide to build a submarine? To prove that it can be done, of course…even if it takes 20 years. Mr Pilipenko, much to the chagrin of his charming wife, has modeled his craft, The Dolphin, after plans published in an ancient edition of Underwater Sportsmen magazine. It's a good thing that modern technology is not required since the poor Mr. P's pension can hardly cover the cost of batteries. What makes this story so endearing is the manner in which it captures the comical everyday life of Pilipenko and his extremely colorful, loving family who are alternately enthusiastic and annoyed at a father who they sometimes wish would spend his golden years on more traditional pursuits. When he finally gets a chance to test his U-boat in the water, things really go off the deep end. Anyone who appreciates quixotic aspirations will find a kindred spirit in this tale of a man who refuses to let reason get in the way of his dream.