Russian Resurrection Film Festival - October 28 - November 23 across Australian capital cities
There's no doubt that 2014 is a challenging year to celebrate all things coming from Russia. However to fully understand the complexities of the world's largest country, there has also probably never been a better time to get an authentic depiction of life in the former soviet republic with the nation's many talented filmmakers capturing the diversity and division faced by the people.
Starting October 28 in Canberra and running until November 23rd in Melbourne, the
Russian Resurrection Film Festival will be held in cinemas across Brisbane, Canberra, Adelaide, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney and will feature 20 films in total, including 14 new films released in the last year. As per tradition, the festival will exhibit of 6 pieces of celebrated Russian cinema, which are 'resurrected' to be screened each year.
Established in 2003 and now in it's 11th year, the Russian Resurrection Film Festival pays homage to the stories and struggles faced by the people of the former socialist state, while also showcasing the talents of Russian actors and filmmakers to a global audience.
There a diverse range of genres to suit all tastes, including arthouse, action, history, drama and even something for the kids in the animated film
Space Dogs 2. Themes are broad and include the concept of truth in
Game of Truth where old university friends reunite and question whether one another can handle old hidden truths. The devastating impact of war is also poignantly explored in
The Battle of Stalingrad which contrasts the fight of Russian soldiers to protect their ravaged city during WW2 against their personal relationships.
On opening night there will be drinks, food and Russian entertainment provided in the ticket price
Each festival runs for approximately 10 days with the majority of screenings over the weekend period. Tickets can be purchased for single sessions or a three film passes are also available. The historic epic
Vasilisa (2014) featuring battle scenes, snow capped scenery and a love conquers all storyline will be shown on opening night at each event with tickets including entertainment, food and drinks – and a shot of vodka for the willing. The full list of films, session times and dates, plus a synopsis for can be found on the Russian Resurrection Film Festival Website.
Below is a list of some of the cinematic highlights and event details by city.
IRON IVAN - Поддубный
A Russian man Ivan Poddubniy was the international wrestling hero in the first half on the 20th century. Despite huge success spanning 45 years, when the revolution ended and the Russian regime changed, he chose to forgo a life of luxury in the city to live with the woman he adored in the seaside. All was not as it seemed as he experienced many turns of fate – not always for the best.
THE FOOL - Дурак
The Fool tells the story of a honest plumber who discovers dangerous risk of collapse in a socialist housing high rise. Trying to convince city officials and a system of corruption, the plumber meets with the Mayor who is also a victim of corruption, and faces the challenge of finding somewhere for the 800 people to live.
KITCHEN IN PARIS – Кухня в Париже
Dubbed as a ' romantic culinary comedy' Vika and Maxim are set to celebrate their wedding but the restaurant they work at in Moscow 'The Claude Monet' is chosen for high level talks between the presidents of France and Russia forcing the owners and restaurant employees to move to Paris. They also must adapt to new culinary challenges in Paris, new competition when it comes to their love, and the need to save the esteemed restaurants reputation.
ADELAIDE SESSION DETAILS –
Event Cinemas Marion, 297 Diagonal Rd, Oaklands Park. Friday Nov 7-Sunday November 9
BRISBANE SESSION DETAILS –
Event Cinemas Myer Centre, Elizabeth Street Thursday Nov 6 – Sunday Nov 16.
CANBERRA SESSION DETAILS –
Event Cinemas, 6 Franklin St, Griffith. Tuesday October 28-November 5.
MELBOURNE SESSION DETAILS –
ACMI FEDERATION SQUARE – November 13 – November 23.
PERTH SESSION DETAILS -
Event Cinemas Inaloo, November 6 – November 12.
SYDNEY SESSION DETAILS -
Event Cinemas George St – October 30 – November 9.
