The renowned Serbian filmmaker Emir Kusturica, who once led the inaugural Spirit of Fire festival, has signaled an intention to travel to Russia for a review despite an earlier interruption. In remarks collected by TASS through a cinematographer’s account, he explained that a recent setback would not derail his plans. He noted that a medical procedure was on the horizon, followed by a recovery period, and that if the operation proceeds without complications, he hopes to participate in the festival’s proceedings before its conclusion. The sentiment conveyed was one of determination and continued involvement, even in the face of personal health challenges, underscoring the festival’s importance to him and to the broader dialogue around cinema in the region (TASS).
Looking ahead, the XXI edition of the Spirit of Fire festival is scheduled to run from March 3 to March 6. This year the festival expands its footprint beyond screening selections. The Spirit of Fire academy will debut, introducing new laboratories, hands-on workshops, and ethno-cinema schools designed to nurture emerging talent and to foster cross-cultural exchange. The event also includes a business program aimed at connecting filmmakers with industry professionals, financiers, and distributors, as well as screenings of restored cinematic treasures. A notable highlight is the alignment of the festival program with the 150th anniversary of Pyotr Chardynin, a pivotal figure in film acting and directing, whose legacy informs the festival’s curatorial choices and historical retrospectives (TASS).
Earlier updates indicated that Kusturica experienced a fall on ice in Serbia, resulting in a leg fracture. While such an injury briefly raised concerns about his ability to participate, regional authorities have reassured the public that the incident will not disrupt the festival schedule. Deputy Governor Elena Shumakova confirmed that the accident would not push back dates or alter the planned activities, emphasizing the resilience of the festival’s planning and the commitment of organizers to maintain momentum despite personal health issues. The overarching message from officials and festival organizers is one of continuity, ensuring that the cultural program remains robust and accessible to audiences in Russia and beyond (TASS).
As the festival prepares to present a curated lineup that blends restored masterworks with contemporary interpretations, industry participants anticipate a dynamic exchange of ideas around restoration, preservation, and new forms of storytelling. The Spirit of Fire festival continues to position itself as a platform where filmmakers from various generations can exchange perspectives, showcase their craft, and engage audiences through both traditional cinema screenings and modern, education-forward initiatives. Attendees can expect a program that celebrates archival cinema while inviting fresh voices to the stage, reinforcing the festival’s mission to sustain regional film heritage while inviting global conversations about the evolving art form (TASS).