What were your initial thoughts after reading the script for the film Belyakovs on Vacation? Did the humor land for you?
After finishing the script, it felt connected to today’s sensibilities. The characters are familiar, the situations recognisable, and the dialogue sparkles with wit. There was never any doubt about Sergei Svetlakov’s involvement, and the script avoids any crude humor. Overall, the comedy extends Sergei Svetlakov’s well-known style, a tone that resonates with a broad audience in North America and beyond.
Have you seen the TV series Our Russia? Which character stood out for you?
Yes, the multi-season show Our Russia left a strong impression. The characters are endearing in their own ways, forming a family of sorts on screen. The show is anchored by beloved actors Mikhail Galustyan and Sergei Svetlakov. The standout moments often come from Slavik and Dimon, two young men who frequent pharmacies, a memory that has become a classic for fans.
Now that you and Sergei are collaborating on the same project, how did that come about and were the expectations met?
The real surprise lies in how expectations and reality interact. It is striking to see that humor can be studied with intellectual rigor. A good comedian is not merely funny; there is a philosophy and a worldview behind the work. Sergei Yuryevich is a family man, a friend, a filmmaker, and a serious professional who crafts humor with care. The process revealed that every joke and every line is carefully tested. The collaboration brought new energy and a unique pleasure to the experience.
There is a notion that on a comedy set writers focus on word order because a shift can derail a joke. Is that true here?
Indeed, this came up. As a dramatic actor, the performer often reframes lines to feel organic, yet here the timing and rhythm are crucial. If the structure changes, the humor can become elusive. Some people miss the intended angle, while others who take humor seriously recognize a harmonious construction, much like music where the sequence of notes creates the melody. The on-set direction emphasizes staying with the written lines rather than improvising. Yet the production did not rely on solo monologues; dialogue remained central to the humor.
Could you share a bit about the character you portray in The Belyakovs?
The film centers on several main figures played by Sergei Svetlakov and Svetlana Listova. They are everyday guys whose reunion at a vacation home triggers a clash of social classes, driving the humor through situational comedy as different strands of society intersect. The actor playing the rival role is depicted as a successful modern man who is, in truth, a slave to money and to a profession that promises high earnings. This focus illustrates how a life dominated by wealth can erode family ties, spousal harmony, and parental connections. The narrative invites viewers to consider the value of life beyond professional success and reminds that genuine happiness resides in relationships and shared moments. The portrayal aligns with contemporary Canadian and American audiences who appreciate relatable life trajectories and the balance between ambition and family.
Maria Gorban joined as the partner character. What was it like working with her, and what was behind the scenes like?
Maria delivered a powerful performance as the wife of the lead, and the dynamic between the characters highlights humor arising from contrasting perspectives. Maria is not only a talented performer but also a warm, personable presence who boosts morale on set. Her energy helps keep the atmosphere light and collaborative. The behind-the-scenes experience was memorable; her sense of humor and empathy kept the cast buoyant, and the team benefited from a strong, positive spirit. The filming took place across the Krasnodar Territory, providing chances to blend work with exploration and camaraderie.
Was there time for humor off camera among the crew?
The set lived up to the idea that there is always room for laughter. The team was lively, and every situation often sparked a joke. There was a constant drive to share stories from life and the industry, creating a friendly, summer-camp vibe. It was a space where colleagues ignited each other’s creativity, rather than retreating to quiet corners.
There is a saying that cinema is the art of waiting. How is that pace managed during lighting, makeup, and waiting for other actors? Do you prepare for a role during these moments or engage in other activities?
Preparation and focus coexist with downtime. Some moments demand total concentration to keep scenes efficient, while others benefit from a light, distracted mindset that fosters spontaneity. There are scenes that rely on a seasoned understanding of acting to be executed smoothly, and others that draw on instinct and experience.
You mentioned watching playback to gauge how scenes read from the outside. How does this experience typically feel for you? Do actors who have long careers still enjoy watching themselves on screen?
Watching playback is often practical. After a project wraps, a significant amount of time has passed, offering a fresh perspective. Viewing becomes an ordinary experience, akin to watching as a general audience member. It is not always possible to revisit every project, but when possible, a careful look can reveal new nuances. This perspective comes with time and familiarity, reducing self-criticism and enhancing understanding of the craft.
[Attribution: Interview with cast and production participants discussing Belyakovs on Vacation and related works.]