Contemporary cinema from Sakha was showcased in an opening event in Paris.
In the heart of Paris, the Russian Spiritual and Cultural Orthodox Center (RDCPC) is hosting a unique event, presenting five contemporary films shot in the remote and beautiful region of Yakutia, also known as the Sakha Republic. This retrospective aims to introduce French audiences to the distinct regional voice within Russian cinema, which highlights the culture, landscape, and social issues of Yakutia.
The opening film of this retrospective is "White Steamer" (2024), a drama directed by Inga Shepeleva. This film tells a poignant story about the connection between a person and nature, memory passed down through generations, and finding one's own path amidst myths and reality.
Another film on the schedule is "SPID STAR" (2024), directed by Aleksey Ambrosev Jr. This drama is known for its exploration of timeless themes like love, family, and connection to nature, but through the prism of local traditions. The film's production team includes an international group, yet it respects and participates in Yakutian mythology, nature, and spirit.
One of the most notable filmmakers in this movement is Stepan Burnashev, whose cinema is described as slick and compelling. His work, such as "Yt" (2021), a comedy-drama co-directed with Dmitry Davydov, is screened at the RDCPC. "Yt" offers a humorous yet insightful look into the lives of Yakut people, enriched by local traditions, environment, and issues of identity.
The event also includes "Triumph" (2024), a sports drama directed by Mikhail Lukachevsky, and "24 Snows" (2015), a documentary film directed by Mikhail Barynin. "24 Snows" offers a deep dive into the authenticity and sincerity of Yakutian life, attributes that have garnered interest in Yakutian cinema.
The month of August at the RDCPC is traditionally dedicated to Russian cinema, and this year, it is no exception. The organizers, including the Association of Yakutian Cinematographers 'Sakha' and the company 'Sakhafilm', have worked tirelessly with minimal resources but with great involvement to bring this unique cinematic experience to Paris.
The result is genuine, live cinema that resonates with audiences worldwide, offering a glimpse into the heart of Siberia and the unique culture of the Yakut people. This wave of Yakutian cinema is gaining broader recognition and platforms outside Russia, showcasing the rich tapestry of stories and traditions that make up this fascinating region.
- Visitors of the Russian Spiritual and Cultural Orthodox Center (RDCPC) in August will find a showcase of sustainable living and home-and-garden themes in Yakutian cinema through films like "Yt" (2021), which offers a unique insight into the Yakut people's lives, enriched by local traditions and environment.
- The distinctive nature and lifestyle of Yakutia, as exemplified in its cinematic works such as "White Steamer" (2024) and "SPID STAR" (2024), continue to draw attention from international audiences, demonstrating the importance of protecting and nurturing the region's cultural heritage for sustainable living.
