Lenkom Theatre director Mark Varshaver spoke with RBC about the health status of 88-year-old director Gleb Panfilov after his hospitalization. He described the situation with care and caution, noting that Panfilov is under medical supervision following a stroke and the subsequent pneumonia diagnosed in the intensive care unit. Varshaver conveyed a sense of cautious optimism, saying that Panfilov remains lucid, communicates through writing, and is accompanied by his son, which provides him comfort during this challenging period. He also mentioned that Panfilov is currently cared for at the Sklifosovsky Research Institute, affirming the team of doctors overseeing his treatment. The overall tone from the medical team is one of guarded hope, with confidence that Panfilov can regain strength as treatment continues and his body responds to care.
According to Varshaver, the medical staff have expressed optimism about Panfilov’s recovery trajectory. They believe gradual improvement is possible, and the pathway to recuperation is expected to unfold in the coming weeks. While the path ahead may have its ups and downs, the consensus among the doctors points toward a positive outcome as long as Panfilov remains stabile and responsive to treatment. The support system around him, including his family and colleagues, is playing a crucial role in maintaining morale during this difficult time.
On May 15, media outlets reported that Panfilov had been connected to a ventilator. This development reflects the seriousness of his condition at that stage and highlights the intensity of the care required to support his breathing and overall stabilization. Medical teams continue to monitor vital functions closely, adjusting treatment as necessary to address any changes in his health status. The focus remains on protecting Panfilov’s neurological and respiratory health while ensuring all other bodily systems receive appropriate support.
Gleb Panfilov, a prominent name in cinema, first debuted with the feature No Passage in Fire, which earned the main prize at the Locarno Film Festival in 1967. He later collaborated on notable works such as Inception, featuring Inna Churikova, and the film I Want Words in 1975. His diverse body of work also includes Theme (1979), Last Summer in Chulimsk (1981), Vassa (1983), Romanovs (2000), and Ivan Denisovich (2021). Panfilov’s creative partner and wife, Churikova, faced a long illness and returned to Moscow on January 14, 2023, after which she passed away. This personal and professional journey has left a lasting imprint on Russian cinema, shaping a legacy that continues to inspire peers and aspiring filmmakers alike.