Rich, funny and emotional, this historical drama follows two romances a century ago. First is the nearly 50 year union between iconic Russian novelist Leo Tolstoy (Best Supporting Actor Nominee Christopher Plummer) and his devoted wife Countess Sofya (Best Actress Nominee Helen Mirren). In the name of a new religion championed by Tolstoy�s trusted disciple Chertkov (Paul Giamatti) that espouses poverty, vegetarianism, communal living and celibacy, the cunning acolyte has convinced the old man to change his will giving his estate not to his family, but to the Russian people. This has ejected some conflict into the long-standing relationship. Tolstoy�s worshipful new assistant Bulgakov (James McAvoy) is used by both sides of the property rights battle for information, even as his beliefs are overwhelmed by his feelings for another Tolstoyan (Kerry Condon). Director Michael Hoffman has made a complex, dynamic, totally entertaining and unmissable film.