Program Director Interview
This is the eighth installment of the Russian Resurrection Film Festival and this year promises to be one of the best. Expect a collection of films that will make you gasp, squirm, ponder, chuckle and weep at the award-winning documentaries, flms and discussions. So says the director of the festival, Nicholas Maksymow.
Q: Describe the Russian Resurrection Film Festival in 5 words? Most vibrant festival in Australia.
Q: Highlights of the festival? The opening night parties have always been described as being really fun. There is Russian dancing and a movie, followed by live music, food and plenty of vodka shots and cocktails - all for the one price! Plus the program this year is really strong. ‘Brest Fortress’ is arguably the best war film to come out of Russia (and the world in the past 20 years). Milla Jovovich starring in a Russian film is another highlight. For classic lovers, ‘Station for Two’ and ‘Moscow Does not Believe in Tears’ are must sees!
Q: How did you decide which films to include and exclude? We have a selection committee - there are four of us on it and most of the time we agree on the standout films to include. However other times, we argue until we are blue in the face but it is always fun debating. What we try and do is select the strongest one or two films in each particular genre - be it comedy, action, fantasy, art house dramas.
Q: Favourite Russian film and why? ‘Come and See’ as I’m a fan of war movies and this one is so harrowing and realistic that it will stay with me forever.
Q: Why should people attend this festival? Russian cinema is different to Hollywood so why not see something different. Russian films have a real sense of realism about them. You won't be disappointed!
Q: Anything else readers should know? Russian Resurrection showcases the best in old and new Russian cinema, and there is always at least one film that will appeal, no matter what your taste.
Russian Resurrection Film Festival runs from August 24 - 31 at Palace Centro and Palace Barracks.
