Get ready to fall in love with a coming-of-age story that’s as bold as it is brilliant—because Jacob Tierney, the mastermind behind the smash hit Heated Rivalry, also directed a 2009 gem you absolutely need to see. The Trotsky isn’t just a movie; it’s a rebellious, laugh-out-loud ode to the idealism of youth, starring the irrepressible Jay Baruchel as a teenager who’s convinced he’s the reincarnation of Leon Trotsky. But here’s where it gets controversial: is Leon a delusional dreamer, or the kind of leader we all need in a world drowning in apathy? And this is the part most people miss—Tierney’s script doesn’t mock Leon’s radicalism; it celebrates it, challenging us to rethink what it means to fight for change. Disclaimer: We may earn a commission from purchases made through links in this article.
Jacob Tierney’s name has been buzzing lately, thanks to his groundbreaking work on Heated Rivalry, the queer hockey romance series adapted from Rachel Reid’s bestselling novels. But long before he became an international sensation, Tierney was a Canadian icon, with credits like Letterkenny and Shoresy solidifying his reputation as a storytelling powerhouse. His approach to Heated Rivalry has been hailed as the antidote to American streaming’s worst trends (think overstuffed plots and forced drama), and even though Season 1 wrapped in December 2025, it’s still dominating as the most-watched show on HBO Max. While fans eagerly await Season 2, Tierney’s filmography offers a treasure trove of gems—none more captivating than The Trotsky. (Check it out on VOD or physical media here: [link].)
Set in the chaotic world of high school politics, The Trotsky follows 17 (and ¾)-year-old Leon Bronstein, a self-proclaimed Trotsky reincarnation who’s determined to unionize his father’s factory, woo a woman nearly a decade older, and spark a student revolution. Sound far-fetched? Maybe. But Leon’s unshakable conviction is exactly what makes him so endearing. Baruchel delivers a pitch-perfect performance, balancing teenage angst with a sharp wit that’ll have you laughing one moment and cheering the next. Tierney’s script is a masterclass in satire, but it’s also a love letter to idealism—a reminder that perfection is the enemy of progress, and that even the most outlandish ideas can inspire real change.
But let’s dive deeper: What’s the difference between boredom and apathy? Leon’s classmates seem more interested in school dance themes than his revolutionary agenda, but is that because they don’t care, or because they’ve never been given a reason to? This philosophical tug-of-war is at the heart of The Trotsky. Leon’s relentless passion slowly radicalizes those around him, proving that people crave meaning—they just need space to interpret it. In an age of doomscrolling and information overload, Leon’s story feels more relevant than ever. He might not actually be Trotsky reincarnated, but he embodies the kind of fearless leadership young people desperately need.
So, here’s the question: Is Leon Bronstein a hero or a fool? Does his brand of idealism have a place in today’s world, or is it just a relic of a bygone era? Let us know in the comments—because whether you love him or roll your eyes at him, one thing’s for sure: The Trotsky will leave you thinking long after the credits roll.
