About Operation Odessa

Operation Odessa is a thrilling documentary released in 2018 that tells the true crime story of a Russian mobster, a Miami playboy, and a Cuban spy, who teamed up in the early 90’s to sell a Soviet submarine to a Colombian drug cartel for $35 million. The film is a wild ride into the underworld of international crime, featuring three of the most unlikely criminals imaginable.

Making / Production

Directed by Tiller Russell, Operation Odessa was produced by SHOWTIME Documentary Films. It brings forward the bizarre and incredible story of two men who arguably defined an era of Miami's history.

Actors

• Taras Kostyuk - Playing as "Tarzan", Kostyuk effectively portrays the larger-than-life character who is a kingpin of the underworld and plays a significant role in the unfolding of the audacious crime plan.
• Nelson 'Tony' Yester - Yester perfectly captures the essence of his character, the Miami playboy who lives life on the edge, constantly seeking thrill through extreme means.
• Juan Almeida - Playing the Cuban Spy, Almeida manages to bring an air of intrigue and stealth that adds an extra layer to the complex narrative.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film made its premiere at the SXSW Film Festival in 2018.
• The story of Operation Odessa is said to be one of the most outrageous crime sagas of the 20th century.
• 'Tarzan', the lead character, was based on a real notorious gangster named Ludwig Fainberg.

Quotes

• "You can't make up a character like Tarzan if you tried."
• "This is a story that needs to be told."
• "The deal of a lifetime, the opportunity of a lifetime, and the risk of a lifetime."

Music, Soundtrack

• The film crafts the ambiance of its narrative through apt background scores, though it doesn't feature any notable soundtracks in the traditional sense.