Across Russia, the national casting for the new Pinocchio feature has wrapped, signaling a milestone for a project many families are eagerly awaiting. The finale of the search showcased the value of discovering local talent who can translate a classic fantasy into vivid screen life, signaling that Russian cinema is ready to invest in fresh, homegrown performers who can carry a beloved tale into a contemporary light. Industry observers noted that the effort aims to build a durable pipeline of new actors for future high profile projects.
Auditions unfolded in September on VKontakte, the social platform connecting aspiring actors with producers and audiences alike. Applicants were invited to film themselves performing to the project’s original score drawn from the old Soviet Pinocchio and to perform the Bu-ra-ti-no dance sequence, testing rhythm, timing, and charisma. The energy was palpable as the video challenge circulated widely, drawing more than 11 million views and provoking conversations about updating a cherished tale for today’s families while staying true to its roots. According to official production notes, the response underscored a broad interest in reimagining classic cinema for new generations.
Out of over 3,800 submissions, five winners earned the chance to join the cast. The film’s director, Igor Voloshin, expressed gratitude to every participant in the acting contest. He described the entries as rich with imagination, dynamic performances, dramatic turns, and new viewpoints, which made the judging both rigorous and rewarding for the panel and the online audience following the process. The selection reflected a balance between bold interpretation and faithful storytelling, a combination that has audiences talking.
The film is slated for a wide theatrical launch on January 1, 2026, a date families across Russia are marking on calendars as a winter entertainment choice. This broad release plan reflects a shared aspiration within the industry to draw families and viewers of every age to experience a modern interpretation of a story that has long left a memorable mark on generations.
On October 6, news confirmed the start of filming for the third season of The Rings of Power, underscoring ongoing momentum in top-tier fantasy TV and the continued growth of that universe for fans worldwide. The update shows that production pipelines stay busy across both feature films and premium television, as audiences anticipate sprawling worlds and immersive narratives across formats.
Earlier news detailed Tatyana Vasilyeva’s rapid recovery after an accident and a flood in her apartment, enabling her to resume commitments soon after. This quick comeback illustrates the resilience and professional dedication performers bring to demanding schedules and major productions, helping keep Russia’s performing arts scene active and forward-moving.