Cinema & Music

The Phenomenon of Yakut Cinema: How "Hands-On Filming" Conquered Kinotavr and the Moscow International Film Festival

The Phenomenon of Yakut Cinema: How "Hands-On Filming" Conquered Kinotavr and the Moscow International Film Festival

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The first full-length film made in Yakutia appeared in 1972. It was the black-and-white drama "The Secret of the Ancestors." However, during the Soviet period, a stable cinematic tradition did not develop in the republic. The situation changed in the 1990s, when, despite the general decline of Russian cinema, modern Yakut cinema emerged, targeting a local audience. By the early 2020s, this genre had developed significantly and became a source of admiration for both viewers and researchers. Residents of Yakutia show an active interest in their cinema, discuss it, and express pride in it, which inspires them to create their own films. Film journalist Klara Khomenko explores the history of cinema in Russia's largest republic and shares her observations.

  • how self-taught Yakut filmmakers broke into big-time Russian cinema;
  • what ulus cinema is and how filming was done in Yakutia without money;
  • why the saying "if you can't do it, don't try it" is utter nonsense;
  • what to watch to understand why everyone is raving about Yakut cinema.

What is the phenomenon of Yakut cinema?

The word "phenomenon" can be interpreted as something that evokes surprise and admiration. A phenomenon is something incredible that, despite its unusualness, exists. If we generalize the information about the phenomenon of Yakut cinema, several key aspects can be highlighted. Yakut cinema has become a true discovery in the world of cinema thanks to its uniqueness, original plots, and vibrant characters. Films created in Yakutia attract attention due to their deep connection to the culture and traditions of the people, as well as their high artistic standards. This phenomenon not only enriches contemporary art but also attracts the interest of audiences worldwide. Thus, Yakut cinema can be considered a true phenomenon that continues to inspire and amaze.

  • Yakut cinema has become a household word after its success at international festivals, as well as at the Moscow Film Festival and the Kinotavr Festival.
  • Yakut cinema has been quietly and unnoticed by the wider world developing in the region since the 1990s and has flourished thanks to the support of local authorities and the enthusiasm of local film lovers.
  • Yakut cinema draws its imagery from nature, everyday village life, and national traditions.
  • Yakut films feature either local theater actors or non-professional actors.
  • Yakut films are shot in the Yakut language for Yakut audiences.

The question of the phenomenal nature of Yakut cinema is of interest. The very existence of Yakut cinema as a cultural phenomenon is noteworthy. Every nation values ​​seeing its identity reflected in works of art. The ability to express oneself through national archetypes and traditions and to discuss one's life in one's native language strengthens the bond between generations and affirms the continuity of cultural existence. Yakut cinema not only serves as a means of self-expression, but also helps preserve the uniqueness and identity of the Yakut people.

Still: the film "Ayta" / "Saidam Baryl"

One can be surprised by the success of Yakut films at federal film festivals such as The fact that Yakut cinema hasn't been included in the Kinotavr, Moscow International Film Festival, Winter Film Festival, and Mayak Film Festival is truly strange. This phenomenon highlights not only the talent of Yakut filmmakers but also the shortcomings of the perception of the Russian film industry as a whole. There's a stereotype in society that quality cinema should be produced in the capitals—Moscow and St. Petersburg—and not in remote regions like Yakutia. However, the success of films from this region demonstrates that talent and creativity can emerge in the most unexpected places, and Yakut cinema deserves recognition and attention on par with works from major cities.

The phenomenon of Yakut cinema lies in the fact that we create films in the Yakut language for Yakut audiences, asserts one of Yakutia's leading directors, Stepan Burnashev, in an interview with Russkiy Mir. This statement underscores the importance of local culture and language in the film industry. Burnashev, a self-taught director like many other directors in the republic, shares his desire to make films about the events unfolding in his community. He noted that their club screened Soviet, Indian, American, and Korean films, and he always longed to see stories that reflected the realities of his life on screen. Yakut cinema is becoming an important tool for conveying the region's unique experience and culture, making it relevant to both local and general audiences. The words of one of the leading directors of contemporary Yakut and Russian cinema underscore the importance of what's happening in the region. In Yakutia, which lacks the legacy of the Soviet film infrastructure, film production is actively underway. This contrasts with the situation in St. Petersburg, where the legendary Lenfilm studio has been in crisis for several years, changing leadership and losing its former glory. Yakut cinema is becoming a symbol of creative independence and innovation, demonstrating that even without a historical base, it is possible to create high-quality and significant works of art.

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Film "Ayta": Reasons for the Revocation of a Distribution License

The film "Ayta," which captured the attention of audiences, has faced an unexpected challenge—the revocation of its distribution license. This decision was the result of a number of factors, including the film's content and potential legal violations. The debate surrounding the film raises important questions about artistic freedom and the boundaries of cinema.

Critics note that the film addresses sensitive topics that could provoke public discontent. Furthermore, government officials point to the need to comply with the rules and regulations governing film screenings in the country. This event has become a relevant example of the tension between art and social norms.

The revocation of the distribution license for "Ayta" is generating interest not only among viewers but also among film industry experts. This situation highlights the importance of complying with legal requirements and opens a discussion about how cinema can reflect social realities while remaining within the bounds of what is permitted.

What are the characteristics of Yakut cinema?

An analysis of audience preferences demonstrates that Yakut cinema has five key features that significantly distinguish it from major Russian cinema, which developed during a similar period. These differences determine the uniqueness of Yakut cinema and its appeal to audiences.

This cinema is aimed at a mass audience, especially those close to the culture of Yakutia. Yakut cinema, unlike mainstream Russian cinema, cannot exist without audience support and has no right to be “not for everyone.” It speaks to viewers in the same language, using both literal and metaphorical expressions. The film draws on relevant themes and images, as well as national folklore and cultural heritage that must be preserved.

This is a multi-genre film. Filmed in 1986, "Maappa" by Alexei Romanov is considered the first Yakut feature film and is a mystical short. That same year, "Old Toy" was released, directed by Ruslan Vasiliev and written by Semyon Ermolaev. It is a real-life drama about a man who has lost touch with his home. Arkady Novikov, one of the leading figures in Yakut cinema, creates folk comedies. Yakut cinema is distinguished by its diversity of genres: you can find police detectives, thrillers, horror films, teen comedies, and even zombie films. This makes Yakut cinema unique compared to the "big" Russian cinema, where war films, comedies, and fairy tales predominate, while other genres remain in the background.

Frame: film "Maappa" / "Sverdlovskaydaaki kiine studiota" / "Sakhafilm"
Still: the film "Timir" / Sinet Spark

This film strives to find its own unique language. Although it contains borrowings from world cinema, for example, Nikolai Koryakin initially conceived his character "Timir" as a Yakut film in the spirit of Taika Waititi and Wes Anderson. This concept allowed him to receive a grant of 500 thousand rubles, since such a project would attract attention. Ultimately, the film proved to be original and won the main prize at the Winter Film Festival in 2023. Yakut filmmakers aren't trying to respond to Hollywood, which itself isn't interested in their work. This film, above all, emphasizes storytelling. Although at first glance it may seem typical of all films, in practice, we often encounter works where the primary focus shifts to secondary objectives, such as promoting a healthy lifestyle or supporting import substitution. As a result, the story ends up in the background, cluttered with slogans and marketing ploys. Unfortunately, this is a common problem with mainstream cinema worldwide. Yakut cinema certainly fulfills its important mission—transmitting the culture of the Sakha people. However, the creators of this film are well aware that poor storytelling will not interest anyone. Therefore, they strive to create deep and meaningful stories that can attract viewers and leave a mark on their hearts. This is cinema that never stops searching for opportunities. The lack of modern equipment, inexperience, and limited financial resources are irrelevant if there is a genuine desire to create. Yakut cinema receives support from the republic's authorities, but it's important to note that this support can be temporary. Furthermore, it remains insignificant compared to the budgets of most modern mainstream films in Russia.

This last point is particularly noteworthy. In 2010, the first New Year's film almanac, "Yolki," was released in Russia, with scenes set in cities such as Kaliningrad, Perm, Kazan, Yekaterinburg, Krasnoyarsk, and Novosibirsk. This attracted audiences to cinemas, as previously most films had been shot in Moscow, with only a few in St. Petersburg. Viewers were interested in seeing not only stories but also familiar landmarks of their cities on screen. The regional focus was one of the factors behind Yolki's success and contributed to its transformation into a major franchise that continues to delight audiences with new releases. By 2010, Yakut cinema celebrated the 20th anniversary of "ulus cinema"—a unique phenomenon that emerged in villages thanks to the efforts of self-taught directors. Shot on video cameras, these films were not widely released, but were actively shown on local television channels and released on DVD and videocassettes. Among the diverse genres of "ulus cinema," one could find detective stories, thrillers, horror films, and melodramas, created by amateur filmmakers driven by pure enthusiasm. Despite the lack of professional training, these films found audiences, as their plots reflected real-life situations and emotions familiar to local residents. Yakut cinema thus recognized 20 years earlier that audiences wanted to see not the lives of the rich and successful on screen, but their own, filled with relatable and relatable experiences. Now let's look at production costs, using the films "Yolki" and "Tsar-Bird" as examples. "Tsar-Bird," which won the main prize at the Moscow Film Festival in 2018 and was recognized in Montreal for its high artistic merit, offers an interesting case for comparison. While it's unfair to directly compare the budgets of a blockbuster and an arthouse film, it's possible in this case. For example, "Yolki Posledniye," released in 2018, cost 230 million rubles, equivalent to approximately $3.4 million at the exchange rate of the time. It's important to note that approaches to filmmaking vary, and Semyon Ermolaev's recollections of the filming of "The Tsar Bird" add depth to his understanding of the artistic value and costs associated with arthouse cinema. Sakhafilm director Dmitry Shadrin proposed to the team: "Let's make a film; there's no money, use the salaries for filming." Edik Novikov took on the project, and soon we were heading to the Moscow Film Festival. There, we needed to state the film's budget, which turned out to be very modest. How could we state "one million rubles"? We decided to write "three million" to make it sound more confident. As a result, everyone began to be surprised: “Three million dollars, is that really so little?”

Still: the film “The Tsar Bird” / Sakhafilm

The audience was not delighted with the film “The Last One”, and reviews of it were mostly negative or Neutral. This film faced only competition from "T-34," a heavy-hitting war drama, a rarity for a holiday weekend. The creators of the final part of "Yolki" had no problems with financing, relying on market research and employing the tried-and-true plot formula of "people in different Russian cities celebrating New Year." As a result, the film grossed 730 million rubles at the box office.

On the other hand, "Tsar Bird" was made on a minimal budget, but despite this, it won eight awards at film festivals and was warmly received by audiences, confirming its relevance and significance. The creation of this film was a necessity, and it became a reflection of the cultural life of its creators and viewers.

Can the experience of Yakut cinema be transferred to all of Russia?

Yakut cinema, characterized by its low-budget and creative nature, exists thanks to its creators' passion for storytelling. It continues to evolve as audiences seek well-told stories. The question of whether the experience of Yakut cinema can be transferred to larger segments of the Russian film industry is becoming increasingly relevant. The experience of creating unique and profound stories with limited resources can become inspiration for larger-scale projects, bringing a fresh perspective and innovative approaches to filmmaking.

Still: film "Tygyn Darkhan" / ANO "Film Company "Tygyn""

Yakutia's cinema arose primarily from the desire of the republic's residents to watch films in their native language. Over the past 30 years, the region has developed a full-fledged infrastructure and a system of state support, as well as an active community that fosters the emergence of new talent—directors, screenwriters, and actors. This experience is unique and cannot be scaled, as it is based on the cultural and linguistic characteristics of the region.

The history of Yakut cinema demonstrates that the impossible is possible. The saying "if you don't know how, don't try" is actually wrong. If the creators of Yakut cinema had followed this principle, the Yakutia film industry would not have emerged. It is important to create, even without all the necessary skills, and to strive for excellence. Yakut cinema lacks genres such as horror films, female protagonists in road movies, high-quality fantasy, and science fiction. Visual effects are often borrowed from Hollywood series, and this won't change anytime soon. However, the future can be brought closer by learning screenwriting, mastering mobile filming, and developing makeup skills. The development of Yakut cinema requires new ideas and initiatives, and everyone can contribute to this unique cultural environment.

The modern world offers many more opportunities than in the 1990s. Cinema is no longer a sacred art form accessible only to a limited circle of people. It is an effective way to share captivating stories with a wider audience. With modern technology, filmmaking has become less expensive. However, it is important to maintain originality and individuality in your approach to storytelling, and to avoid being overly influenced by technology and foreign film language. The desire to convey a unique perspective on the world and creative thinking are key aspects of successful cinema. The Russian film industry, which has been around for just over 30 years, is still in its infancy, opening its doors to both professionals and self-taught artists. This creates unique opportunities for new talents ready to bring fresh ideas and approaches to the development of Russian cinema.

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The best Russian films: top 20

Russian cinema has a rich history and a variety of genres, offering viewers many outstanding films. This list presents the twenty best Russian films that deserve attention. These films are distinguished by high-quality direction, strong scripts, and vibrant performances. They reflect Russia's culture, traditions, and social issues, leaving a deep imprint on audiences. From classics to modern masterpieces, this top 20 shows how Russian cinema continues to evolve and surprise. While the selection of the best films may vary, each of these works deserves a place on the list as they represent important milestones in the history of Russian cinema.

6 Yakut Films Worth Watching

Our film rating is based on a variety of criteria. These films can inspire, open new horizons, make you smile, or encourage a deep analysis of visual art. All the films presented are examples of high-quality cinema with unique qualities, an original style, and captivating plots.

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Year of graduation: 1993.

Director Alexey Romanov is an outstanding representative of modern cinema. His creative approach and unique style allow him to create memorable films that resonate with audiences. Romanov's meticulous attention to detail makes his work emotionally rich and visually compelling. His films often address important social themes and explore human relationships, adding depth and meaning to his work. With his talent and professionalism, Alexey Romanov continues to inspire both audiences and young directors, leaving a lasting mark on the world of cinema.

The film stars Vladimir Kondakov, Afanasy Fyodorov, and Matryona Kornilova. These talented performers bring uniqueness and depth to their roles, making the story more engaging and memorable. Each of them vividly presents their characters, adding emotional richness and drama to the overall picture.

Still: film "The Middle World" / "Sakhafilm"

From an early age, the Sakha people are immersed in an atmosphere of rituals and traditions. At the birth of a child, gratitude is expressed to the goddess Aisyt, and shamans predict the child's future destiny. During the Ysyakh festival, dedicated to summer, solar deities of fertility are honored. These rituals are an integral part of life in the Middle World, Orto Doidu, where people and spirits (ichchi) coexist. The upper world is the abode of the Aiyy, the deities, while the lower world is reserved for the abaakhy, the demons. Sakha traditions emphasize harmony between different worlds, and rituals serve as an important aspect of their cultural identity.

This documentary-fiction film is an ideal introduction to Yakut cinema. It is the first full-length film created in the republic under the direction of Alexei Romanov, the founder of local cinema. The film provides a deeper understanding of the unique world of the Yakuts, their philosophy, mythology, and cultural values. Understanding these aspects will help viewers better appreciate Yakut films, as without an understanding of local traditions and beliefs, perceiving them as European literature is impossible without knowledge of the Bible or antiquity. This film opens the door to the amazing world of Yakut stories and traditions, making it an important work for the study of local cinema.

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Year of release: 2018.

Director Stepan Burnashev is known for his unique approach to filmmaking. His works are distinguished by an original style and a deep understanding of human nature. Stepan Burnashev pays attention to detail, which allows him to create memorable images and vivid scenes. His films often touch on important social themes and evoke deep emotions in viewers. Burnashev's creative career is filled with numerous successful projects that have been recognized by both audiences and critics. His contribution to modern cinema is difficult to overstate, and he continues to inspire a new generation of directors.

The film stars Georgy Bessonov, Irina Mikhailova, and Dmitry Baishev. These talented actors bring unique emotion and depth to their characters, creating a captivating atmosphere. Each of them makes their own contribution to the development of the plot, which makes the film especially interesting for the audience.

Frame: film "Republic Z" / NewEra

Buyokke and Mattee found a way to survive during the zombie apocalypse by creating a barricade around their They built a barricade around their house to protect themselves from their village neighbors. However, their safety was short-lived—due to their poor decision, zombies from all over Yakutia began converging on them. In a desperate situation, they tried to escape by car, but quickly ran out of fuel. Meeting a girl named Dora, they didn't expect her to accidentally shoot one of their friends in the shoulder. Now they have to build a barricade again, but this time around Dora's house. This change in scenery adds new challenges and forces the heroes to adapt to the changing conditions in a world full of dangers.

It's scary to imagine what kind of film Stepan Burnashev could have made with a slightly larger budget, especially for the zombie makeup. "Republic of Z" would have found popularity on streaming platforms and even in theaters: viewers across the country would have shared their impressions of this funny and simultaneously dramatic road movie, produced domestically. However, the clumsy special effects perhaps only highlight the film's strengths: charming and genuinely engaging characters who audiences empathize with as if they were family. Russian cinema is sorely lacking such characters, and this is precisely what makes "Republic Z" unique and memorable.

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Year of release: 2020.

Director Nikita Arzhakov is a talented professional in the world of film and theater. His works are distinguished by a unique style and a deep understanding of human emotions. Arzhakov strives to create vivid and memorable images, exploring complex themes and character relationships. In his projects, he pays attention not only to visual aesthetics but also to the quality of the script, which makes his films and performances meaningful and relevant. Nikita Arzhakov's work has received acclaim from both audiences and critics, confirming his status as one of the most promising contemporary directors.

The film stars Nurgun Bechigen, Pyotr Savvin, and Vasilisa Myreeva. These talented actors bring unique qualities to their roles, making the film particularly memorable. Nurgun Bechigen is known for his expressive performances, Pyotr Savvin impresses audiences with the depth of his characters, and Vasilisa Myreeva adds a touch of freshness and unpredictability to the plot. Each of them contributes to the creation of a fascinating story that leaves the audience wanting more.

Still: the film "Tygyn Darkhan" / ANO "Tygyn Film Company"

At the end of the 16th century, Yakutia was engulfed in civil wars. The leader of the Khangalas tribe, Tygyn Darkhan, strives to unite the Yakuts into a single nation. However, achieving this goal is proving extremely difficult, as many are unwilling to give up their power and autonomy. Conflicts between tribes continue to threaten the stability of the region, and only decisive action can lead to peace and the reconciliation of interests. Director Nikita Arzhakov's epic is a significant phenomenon in the field of Yakut cinema. With a budget of 225 million rubles, the film stands out for the high quality of its visual effects and sets, which avoid the low-budget impression that is a common problem among Russian historical blockbusters. This violent and large-scale film showcases impressive choreography in its crowd scenes, demonstrating a rational use of the budget. Despite its shortcomings and the lack of expected box office success, the film was an important experience for many participants, giving them the opportunity to work with modern technology on set. This, in turn, contributes to the further development of cinema in Yakutia, opening new horizons for future projects.

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Year of release: 2020.

Director Dmitry Davydov is one of the prominent representatives of modern theater and cinema. His works are distinguished by an original approach to the script and a unique vision. Thanks to his talent and creativity, Davydov has created many memorable productions that have received acclaim from both audiences and critics. His style is characterized by deep character analysis and emotionally rich plots. The director actively experiments with forms and genres, which allows him to remain at the forefront of theatrical art. Dmitry Davydov's works continue to inspire a new generation of artists and directors.

The film stars Valentina Romanova-Chyskyyray, Anatoly Struchkov, Artur Zakharov, and Anilena Guryeva. These talented actors bring their unique charisma and skill to the project, making the plot more captivating and memorable. Each performance creates an atmosphere that immerses viewers in the world of the unfolding events. Thanks to the professionalism of the actors, the film promises to be a real event in the world of cinema.

Still: film "Scarecrow" / ANO "Tygyn Film Company"

Scarecrow is a healer who is feared and hated by the villagers. Despite their fear and hostility, they turn to her for healing. The woman truly possesses a gift that allows her to cure illnesses. However, after each instance of healing, she seeks to numb her own and others' pain with alcohol.

The film "Scarecrow" deserves special attention and is worth seeing to understand how it impressed the jury of the 2020 Kinotavr Film Festival. Self-taught director Dmitry Davydov, who had long run a film club with his students, created this work for just one and a half million rubles. The film features only one professional actress—singer Valentina Romanova-Chyskyyray, who plays the lead role. An interesting aspect is the lack of color correction: the only color corrector in Yakutia was busy, leading Davydov to shoot the film in faded tones that fade to monochrome by the end. This decision, born out of desperation, is now being studied as a unique element of the cinematic language in his work. The film "Scarecrow" demonstrates how bold artistic decisions can create a new perception of cinema.

Year of release: 2023.

Director Nikolai Koryakin is an outstanding master of theatrical and cinematic arts. His works are distinguished by a unique style and a profound understanding of human nature. Koryakin creates works that touch on important social and cultural themes, evoking strong emotions and reflections in viewers. Thanks to his experience and creative approach, he has won recognition both on the domestic and international stages. The director actively collaborates with renowned actors and theaters, which allows him to realize the most daring creative ideas and projects.

The film stars Algis Danilov, Georgy Bessonov, Vladislav Nikanorov, and Roman Dorofeev. These actors bring their unique talents and charisma to the project, creating memorable characters. Their mastery of their roles helps to deeply immerse the audience in the plot and atmosphere of the film.

Still: film "Timir" / Sinet Spark

Timir, a young boy, experiences a difficult loss - the death of his mother. Now he must live with his alcoholic father and face the ridicule of his fellow villagers. His life has become a living nightmare. However, one day, everything changes when he encounters a spirit trapped between two worlds. This encounter opens new horizons and possibilities for Timir, forcing him to see his reality from a different perspective. Now the boy must not only overcome these difficulties but also explore the secrets hidden in the spirit world. Director Nikolai Koryakin began his career as a video blogger, posting reviews of Yakut cinema. Gradually, he came to the decision to create his own films. At first, his works were only a minute long, then five minutes, and soon he released a full-length film called "Timira." This film combines an ironic and sentimental style inspired by the work of Taika Waititi and the vibrant color palette characteristic of Wes Anderson. "Timira" is a touching and sweet film about the kindness of the world and how each of us can be lucky at some point: enemies can become friends, alcoholics can become caring fathers, and bad memories, although they remain with us, bring only a bright sadness.

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Year of release: 2022

Director Lyubov Borisova has a unique creative approach to creating films and theater productions. Her works are distinguished by a deep understanding of human emotions and socially significant themes. Borisova actively explores various genres, creating vivid and memorable images that resonate with audiences. Her career includes projects that have received recognition both on the domestic and international stages. Lyubov Borisova's creative style combines originality and professionalism, making her one of the most sought-after directors of our time.

The film stars Darius Gumauskas, Alexander Chichakhov, Vyacheslav Yugov, and Elena Markova. These talented performers bring a unique character and depth to the project, making it especially appealing to viewers.

Still: film "Don't Bury Me Without Ivan" / Studio "Author" / "Sakhafilm"

Stepan Beresekov, Yakut by Born in the 19th century, Stepan experiences a strong fear of being buried alive due to his tendency toward lethargy. In this state, only ethnographer Ivan Popov, possessing a unique ability to distinguish lethargy from death, can save him. However, Ivan leaves on a long expedition, forcing Stepan to take steps to prevent a potential tragedy. He decides to follow Popov on a journey to avoid the worst-case scenario. Lyubov Borisova's film, based on real events, is practically devoid of villains. The film is permeated with positivity, and even the protagonist Stepan's illness, upon closer analysis, turns out to be a gift. Thanks to his condition, he is able to perceive the beauty of the world with a vividness and precision unattainable by the average person. Together with Popov, they embark on a journey through picturesque Yakutia, capturing its amazing landscapes. It resembles a road movie, in which the atmosphere of paradise reigns. Everything around is shrouded in light, as if covered in gold, so it becomes difficult to understand whether the heroes really continue their journey on earth.

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The absurdity of existence, dacha adventures and the spirits of Bashkiria become the central themes of young cinema at the New Movement festival. This festival offers a unique platform for independent filmmakers who explore pressing contemporary issues through the lens of feature film. Participants present films that reflect social and cultural aspects of life in Russia, as well as personal experiences and philosophical reflections. "New Movement" not only supports young directors but also promotes the development of the film industry, highlighting emerging talent and innovative approaches to cinema. The festival is becoming an important event for film lovers and professionals, opening new horizons for discussion and the exchange of ideas.