During a candid discussion about the series, director Zhora Kryzhovnikov revealed that several scenes were reshot after initial filming. The team revisited early material, revising the first episode and reworking specific dialogue to shape the narrative more clearly for viewers. The director spoke openly about the decision to re-screen parts of the pilot and to adjust how crucial moments were presented in the opening arc.
In the first episode, the scene in the restroom where Alexander and Andrey spoke was re-shot, and Novo-Tatar provides new context about what transpired. Later, in the fifth episode, a significant portion of the school sequence was reimagined. In this take, Marat delivers Tatar dialogue to Aigul and offers candy, a moment that had previously been followed by a kiss, prompting changes the next day. Kryzhovnikov noted that these adjustments were made to refine character dynamics and pacing and to ensure the audience could follow the emotional beats more clearly.
According to Kryzhovnikov, the team chose to broaden the romantic thread between Marat and Aigul during the editing phase. The decision necessitated filming additional material to deepen the relationship and to explore the characters’ motivations more fully on screen. This approach reflects a broader shift in the project to balance relationship development with the evolving thematic focus of the show.
In the same interview, the director spoke about the original plan for the series to run for three seasons, with each season centered on a distinct year: 1989, 1991 and 1993. He described those years as markedly different, almost like entering separate worlds due to changing social and cultural landscapes. Kryzhovnikov emphasized that those periods were vivid in his own memory, shaping how he envisioned the series’ atmosphere, production design, and character interactions. This retrospective framing highlights how historical context can influence narrative direction and character arcs within serialized storytelling.
Recent industry commentary has also touched on related literary adaptations, underscoring a broader interest in revisiting classic works through contemporary lenses. These conversations form part of a wider dialogue about how creators reinterpret familiar stories while maintaining authenticity and resonance for current audiences. [Cited statements from industry participants and the director’s interview].