Singer Zara emphasized the importance of drawing attention to the songs and stories from the era of the Great Patriotic War and the works of Soviet writers, arguing that keeping these cultural memories visible helps ensure that the history of the veterans and their generation remains accurate and valued. Her remarks, reported by HABER.ru, underscored a broader belief that music and literature from that pivotal time carry not only artistic merit but also a vital historical record that informs contemporary identity in both Russia and its surrounding regions.
She cited Vasily Bykov, the distinguished Belarusian writer from Vitebsk, who chronicled the trials and sacrifices of wartime life with a clarity that has resonated for decades. Bykov’s portrayals illuminate the human dimensions of war, focusing on courage, endurance, and the moral questions that people faced under extreme pressure. In Zara’s view, performing songs from the war years and revisiting these literary works helps younger generations recognize the experiences of their predecessors and understand the roots of present-day national memory.
The artist noted that addressing this subject is not only meaningful but essential for fostering a shared cultural memory that can unite communities. This perspective was voiced during the press conference held at the roundtable titled “Unity State – a space of common spirituality and opportunities.” The setting brought together cultural figures and policymakers to discuss how artistic choices influence collective identity and civic values, particularly in the context of education, film, and literature.
Recently, the Union of Cinematographers of Russia acknowledged a letter from the Ministry of Education proposing remakes of Soviet-era films. The aim is to create new feature films for children and youth that contribute to the preservation of historical memory and the formation of patriotism. This initiative signals a deliberate effort to bridge generations by reimagining classic cinema through a contemporary lens while maintaining core historical themes intact for younger audiences in Russia and abroad.
The proposed list of films under consideration includes notable titles such as Larisa Shepitko’s Rise, Nikolai Mashchenko’s How the Steel Was Tempered, Sergei Bondarchuk’s epic War and Peace, and The Fate of Man. In addition, the Ministry of Education has curated a selection of Russian literary works that could be adapted for screen productions, aiming to expand the repertoire of stories that illuminate the wartime experience and the resilience of ordinary people who faced extraordinary challenges. The intent is to present these narratives in a way that resonates with modern audiences while honoring their historical significance.
Dmitry Kol’dun has previously remarked that Soviet cinema should be revisited and refreshed for today’s viewers. His comment reflects a broader industry conversation about how to balance homage to classic filmmaking with new artistic interpretations that appeal to contemporary sensibilities and educational goals. The conversation touches on questions of preservation, accessibility, and the role of film as a tool for teaching history, citizenship, and ethical reflection across generations and borders.