In a discussion with director Vladimir Khotinenko, the Russian filmmaker expressed frustration that his collaborative project with Italian partners had stalled, effectively hanging in the air. The conversation unveiled a frustration that the partnership had not yet moved beyond the contract stage, despite serious planning and exploration of several promising directions.
He explained that he initially considered a film centered on Dante, but not a straightforward adaptation of The Divine Comedy. The plan involved close collaboration with Italian colleagues, and the project had reached the contract phase as they searched for the right form and compelling options. Yet the conditions surrounding the collaboration prevented the project from progressing, leaving it in limbo for the time being.
The director revealed a renewed resolve to pursue a narrative that blends adventure with elements of mythology, focusing on the writer’s personal life. He revealed that inspiration struck after visiting Florence’s baptistery, a moment that connected him deeply to Dante and even to Leonardo da Vinci’s circle. He noted that the baptistery is part of Dante’s and Gioconda’s shared historical religious context, which reinforced his belief in the potential of this idea.
“This is how fate threads its course. Right now, I cannot abandon this concept,” Khotinenko remarked, signaling his intent to persevere despite the hurdles. The interview conveyed a sense of personal commitment to the project and the belief that the material holds a significant, timeless appeal that could resonate with audiences in both Russia and the broader international community.
Earlier remarks from Khotinenko also referenced a demanding preparatory approach for the cast, noting that actor Yevgeny Mironov spent two months immersed in a mosque environment as part of his role preparation. The emphasis on immersive research underscored the director’s dedication to authenticity and cultural sensitivity in portraying a historic literary figure on screen, especially given the cross-cultural collaboration involved in the project. The comments reflect a broader ambition to create a cinematic experience that blends historical texture with mythic storytelling, offering audiences a fresh lens on Dante’s life and influences, while navigating the complexities of international production and artistic collaboration. (Attribution: interview summaries and press materials from credible entertainment news outlets)