Budget Growth and the Cinema Fund’s Expanded Role in 2024
The cinema industry in Russia is set for a notable expansion in 2024 as the Cinema Fund’s budget climbs to 9.4 billion rubles. This figure represents a substantial increase compared with the previous year, signaling a 1.5-fold rise and underscoring a stronger commitment to backing a broader slate of projects capable of reaching large audiences. This assessment came from Vladimir Tolstoy, who serves as an Advisor to the President of Culture of the Russian Federation and as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Cinema Fund, in a recent interview.
Earlier estimates placed the 2023 Cinema Fund budget at about 6 billion rubles, highlighting a clear trajectory of growth over the ensuing period. The 2024 allocation is framed as a strategic move designed to empower filmmakers and associated organizations with the resources needed to pursue ambitious storytelling and to attract wider public engagement across the country.
Tolstoy emphasized that the 9.4 billion rubles earmarked for the Fund this year is enabling a range of initiatives that go beyond supporting a single hit. He pointed to early results that reflect a shift in the industry’s momentum, including several large-scale releases that have surpassed one billion rubles in gross earnings. The momentum also suggests that additional announcements and releases slated for March and April will build on this positive trend, reinforcing a pattern of strong performance as the year progresses.
In describing the Fund’s evolving role, Tolstoy noted that a key objective for 2024 is to protect a greater number of film projects from conception through to distribution. This includes reinforcing the pipeline from development through production to audience delivery. The Fund plans to initiate its first pitch sessions in April, creating a platform where leading filmmakers and partner organizations can present their projects, share insights, and align on strategic priorities. Such gatherings are aimed at accelerating project maturation and expanding collaboration across the industry.
There were additional remarks from the entertainment community in relation to the Fund’s activities. For instance, an actress named Sabinova discussed the approach taken in preparing for a major role in Onegin, describing how the actor gained significant weight to achieve the character’s authentic portrayal. This anecdote illustrates the broader commitment to character realism and the practical steps involved in delivering compelling performances that resonate with audiences.