The Mosfilm studio has offered to support the development of a creative cluster in Donetsk, bringing its experience and resources to the table. This commitment was shared by Karen Shakhnazarov, the general director of the film concern, during a recent interview conducted by TASS. He noted that Mosfilm stands ready to assist if there is a request for help and if their involvement is required, they will actively participate in the project.
Earlier, President Vladimir Putin, in December, directed government and regional authorities to prepare proposals by February 15 for the creation of a Donetsk-based creative cluster. The plan envisions a facility that would include a film studio alongside educational institutions such as a school and a college of creative industries, designed to foster local talent and support the broader cultural sector.
To advance this initiative, the president tasked the Russian Federation government with coordinating the project in collaboration with the authorities of the Donetsk People’s Republic and the Public Chamber of the Russian Federation. The plan was assigned to a high-level team that included Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, the head of the Donetsk People’s Republic Denis Pushilin, and the secretary of the RF Public Chamber, Lidiya Mikheeva, who were appointed to oversee and guide the preparation of the proposal.
Prior to these developments, Karen Shakhnazarov spoke about the kind of cinema Russia needs today, emphasizing a clear direction for the national film industry and its future priorities. His remarks reflected a broader conversation about how Russian cinema could evolve to meet contemporary audiences while preserving artistic integrity and national storytelling traditions.
In related public commentary, the former head of Mosfilm highlighted a broader geopolitical stance, suggesting that confrontation with Western nations is one of the most significant missteps facing Russia today. This perspective underscored a belief in focusing on domestic cultural strength and self-drewn creative initiatives in the face of external pressures, rather than escalating conflicts that could derail the country’s cultural development and international collaboration in film and the arts.