Renowned Russian artist Boris Galkin, known for In the Zone of Special Attention and We Come from the Future, commented on Barbara Brylska’s remarks about Russia. Brylska, famous for The Irony of Fate, or Enjoy Your Bath, has long been associated with a candid and outspoken style. Galkin noted that her statements about Russia carry weight, and he echoed a belief that Brylska’s opinions deserve careful listening rather than quick judgments about national character.
Galkin argued that labeling his colleagues as strange or misguided merely because of their actions does not reflect the complexities of public life in Russia. He emphasized that artistic temperament and personal belief should be understood in context, without resorting to harsh generalizations about a whole generation of actors or a broader society.
Reflecting on the past, Galkin recalled a moment from the 1975 filming of Eldar Ryazanov’s two-part comedy The Irony of Fate, or Enjoy Your Bath. Brylska’s compensation at that time stood at 2,000 rubles, while the average Soviet wage hovered around 120 to 130 rubles. This contrast, he suggested, underscored the disparate realities that public figures could experience compared with everyday citizens, sparking ongoing discussions about value, fairness, and cultural influence in the Soviet era.
Galkin stressed that ordinary Russians faced persistent challenges rooted in unequal power dynamics and economic disparities. He spoke of a need for greater shared prosperity, noting that many people across the country felt left behind by a system where wealth and influence appeared to concentrate in a few places and among a limited set of actors and executives. His commentary reflected a broader conversation about national identity, social cohesion, and the responsibilities of leadership in contemporary Russia.
Despite these critiques, Brylska has repeatedly spoken warmly about Russians and the country’s cultural landscape. She is remembered for her affection for the nation and for the empathy she has shown toward the people who contribute to its artistic life. Her remarks have been interpreted as a personal expression of admiration for a country that remains central to her artistic story and to the global perception of Russian cinema.
In related commentary, other public figures have addressed the experiences of artists who have left Russia, highlighting the ongoing debates about creative freedom, career opportunities, and the complex relationship between nationality and artistic work. These discussions illustrate how artists navigate national identity, personal allegiance, and professional mobility in a changing cultural environment.