Kuzma discusses the shooting of the drama UZZZ, explaining how Rostov was portrayed and how the dialogue was crafted to reflect life in the city. He notes that the locals observed the realism in conversations, while the series kept a respectful tone without mockery. He emphasizes that speech was a key focus, aiming to capture a particular Rostov voice that feels both traditional and fresh, especially among younger generations. The director, Stas Ivanov, did not impose a strict directive on this element, leaving room for the actor to hint at a broader regional cadence. Rostov life, with its courtyard gatherings and distinctive architectural moments where doors and windows share a close view, appeared quite different from Moscow, lending the show a calmer rhythm that the production sought to convey.
The actor reflects on the character Rav, describing him as a good-hearted person with a childlike sense of honor and duty. Rav has few friends but stands up for his loved ones, and while he is deeply focused, there is a touch of vulnerability and a willingness to advance toward his goals at any cost. The portrayal blends strength with a certain recklessness, suggesting a person who believes movement toward a goal is essential, even if it brings danger or misjudgment.
When asked about working with Anton Kuznetsov and Gela Meskhi, the response highlights the value of mentorship in acting. Observing and learning from more experienced colleagues is considered crucial to artistic growth. Kuznetsov and Meskhi are praised as masters, with Gela described as a consummate professional in cinema and Anton renowned for his intense energy and natural charm. Their on-screen presence supports a dynamic where Rav navigates a world where brutal choices coexist with genuine affection among characters.
The discussion touches on Rav’s weaknesses, noting a stubborn willingness to be first and to never back down. Such traits, combined with a tendency to miscalculate strength, can spell trouble and threaten Rav’s progress in the narrative. The relationship with Smoke is explored as a fatherly influence for the half-orphan Rav, even though this was not explicitly written into the script. Smoke serves as a role model in business and family life, shaping Rav in meaningful ways.
The contrast between old and new worlds is a recurring theme. Rav’s future trajectory is framed as a path for those who pursue their own vision without heavy judgment about practicality or financial gain. Authentic passion can attract like-minded people and foster success, the actor suggests. Regarding collaboration with the director, there were initial misunderstandings, yet the working relationship evolved into a strong artistic partnership. The director Stas Ivanov is credited with shaping the show and guiding the actor through a journey from initial misalignment to a shared creative path. Despite challenges, the collaboration is portrayed as a valuable and transformative experience.
On stage versus cinema, the dialogue reflects the belief that theater fosters continuous development, while film offers distinct opportunities and challenges. Theatre allows for ongoing growth, whereas cinema often involves non-linear production—opening scenes might be shot before the middle or final moments. The actor notes that achieving a full performance in cinema can be difficult, requiring quick adaptation and precise timing. Yet theater remains a source of deeper training and refinement, contributing to a richer screen presence.
Asked whether he has finally tasted cinema after UZZZ, the actor reveals that filming for UZZZ concluded around mid-year and that the final episode would mark a personal milestone as it aligned with his birthday. He remains open to future projects, including a potential role in the TV series Cuba, while continuing to explore feature-length opportunities. He asserts a pragmatic approach to acting, preferring to choose roles based on fit rather than preconceived preferences.
The discussion shifts to the idea of well-deserved success, defined by a sense of genuinely completed, meaningful work. Self-praise is rare, but the belief that one has earned progress comes from inner confirmation rather than external validation. The actor also reflects on family life, noting that a large family has shaped his sense of responsibility from an early age. His daughter, currently three, shows an interest in following in his footsteps, while other siblings pursue varied paths in the arts. Family remains a grounding force in his professional life.
Mother and father reactions to his work are mixed yet supportive in their own ways. His mother often worries when watching his projects, while his father remains more interested in cinema than theatre. The birth of his daughter, Ustinya, is described as a pivotal moment that coincided with a professional uplift, reinforcing the idea that responsibility toward loved ones can enhance creative performance.
Rav’s personal code is said to act as an internal warning system, especially after marriage and the birth of his daughter. The presence of loved ones behind every decision makes impulsive moves less likely, and this sense of accountability remains a constant influence. The actor emphasizes that this responsibility is shared with those who stand by him, shaping his choices and providing grounding even in moments of risk.
When asked about the perception of him as an old-soul personality, he insists he has always preferred the company of peers rather than a large circle of older acquaintances. He jokes about being a grandfather in a young body, a sentiment that underscores his balanced, down-to-earth approach to performance and life. He also mentions his musical talents, including several instruments and a past band. While he has no current plans to collaborate with the composer Kazi on a joint track for UZZZ, he admires Kazi’s brilliance and finds the music he creates compelling, even as his own musical tastes pull in other directions.
Looking ahead, the actor hints at upcoming work including a summer on set for an as-yet-unrevealed project, with a potential supporting role in the TV series Cuba. He expresses a strong desire to focus more on film, while remaining open to opportunities that align with his artistic instincts. Casting decisions will continue to be guided by instinct and a clear sense of fit, rather than chasing trends or conventional pathways, ensuring each project is a meaningful step in his evolving career.