The first Moscow International Film Week (MIFW) opened on August 23 at the Khudozhestvenny Cinema in the Russian capital. The event is showcasing eight Chinese films and facilitating exchanges between Chinese and Russian film industry representatives.
The first Moscow International Film Week (MIFW) opens at the Khudozhestvenny Cinema in Moscow, Russia, Aug. 23, 2024. [Photo courtesy of the Organizing Committee of MIFW]
Russian government officials and prominent figures from several countries' film industries attended the opening ceremony. Notable ambassadors for the event include actor Milos Bikovic, director Zhora Kryzhovnikov and actor Nikita Volkov. Guests later attended the Russian premiere of the Indian comedy-drama "Laapataa Ladies," which has garnered positive reviews from audiences and international critics.
The MIFW's first day featured foreign and Russian film screenings, including local premieres of India's sports drama "Field" and Iran's philosophical-mystical drama "Alzheimer." Interactive experiences, such as mobile film sets, allowed visitors to explore filmmaking through video introductions, lectures and master classes with renowned actors. These activities will continue at various locations in the city throughout the week.
"I think this is a very interesting and large-scale event. Most importantly, it serves as a catalyst for new, creative and interesting films," said Russian director Aleksey Uchitel at the opening ceremony.
The MIFW continues in Moscow through Aug. 28, featuring over 200 daily events at more than 100 venues across the city. These include film screenings, master classes and creative meetings.
Delegations from more than 40 countries, including China, India, Turkey, Iran, Egypt, Thailand and members of the Commonwealth of Independent States, are attending. Government officials and global film industry representatives are also taking part in the event's business program.
Posters of Chinese films to be shown at the Moscow International Film Week. [Photo provided to China.org.cn]
The event, organized by the Moscow Department of Culture and the Creative Industries Agency, will offer local residents a chance to experience Chinese cinema. Screenings will comprise both live-action and animated features, including "Born to Fly," "My Love," "Love in the Office," "Chang An," "Super Wings the Movie: Maximum Speed," "I Am What I Am," "New Happy Dad and Son 3: Adventure in Russia," and "Mozart from Space."
The film week coincides with the Year of China-Russia Cultural Exchange, marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Chinese delegations will visit the Moscow Film Industry Moskino Cluster during the event. At the festival's "Country-Study" discussion, Chinese executives will explore co-production opportunities, addressing topics like navigating the Chinese market, overcoming language and cultural barriers, and examining successful joint project models. Participants will also learn about market entry strategies and industry collaboration.