New prospects for the film industry
In 2024, Russia became the chairman of the BRICS countries, and the XXII International Festival of Cinematic Debuts “Spirit of Fire”, held on March 23-26 in Khanty-Mansiysk, opens a series of cultural events within the framework of this chairmanship.
The BRICS countries are distinguished by a unique and distinctive culture; In many of them the film industry is highly developed. The presence of filmmakers with such diverse backgrounds and creativity at the festival provides a truly unique opportunity for cultural exchange and collaboration.
“Spirit of Fire” for two decades was a launching pad for future movie stars, supporting the principle of mutual acquaintance: guests and participants from all over the world discovered the ethnic diversity, rich traditions and polyphony of Ugra, and Ugra viewers, in turn, learned “from first-hand” about the life and culture of other countries.
Films from the BRICS countries have repeatedly declared themselves in the competition program of the festival, and in 2023, prizes at the international competition were awarded to films from Iran, India and China. The focus of the business program, first presented at the Spirit of Fire last year, was “film dialogues” between Russia and India, as well as Russia and the United Arab Emirates.
This year, at the international competition, we will see new works by directors from the BRICS countries, we will be able to appreciate fresh author’s solutions based on cultural identity, and get impetus for new creative projects - both Russian and international.
The business program “The Special Language of National Cinematography of the BRICS Countries” will become a space for international dialogue. Industry experts and public figures will discuss the possibilities of joint film production, educational and cultural initiatives, the development of film distribution and the promotion of films in international markets.
The participation of the BRICS countries in the “Spirit of Fire” marks the beginning of a new long journey in cinema, which is so in tune with the very idea of our film debut festival.
