Director Alexei Uchitel recalled in an interview that his film Walking, featuring Yevgeny Tsyganov and Irina Pegova, was envisioned for shoots in several cities worldwide. The project began with plans to shoot ten sequences in different locales, with interest from both American and Italian partners. The enthusiasm for international locations was strong at first, but as often happens in co productions, the energy faded over time.
The film earned top honors at two American film festivals, drawing attention to a cast that included Pegova, Pavel Barshak, and Tsyganov. This project marked a breakthrough for all three actors, bringing them into clearer public view for the first time through a major feature.
In recounting the casting process, Uchitel noted that an initially selected actress for Pegova’s role was later replaced after a later look at her performance in a graduation show. He also mentioned inviting Tsyganov and Barshak to participate in the casting for the lead.
It was said that Tsyganov often refrained from definitive decisions, while Barshak pushed the process forward, sometimes late at night. The director recalled a conversation in which Barshak described meeting a striking actress on the street, a moment that influenced the final choice.
The Russian premiere of Walking took place in 2004, and the story follows three young people moving through the streets of St. Petersburg as they navigate choices, friendship, and the path toward adulthood.
Additionally, attention persisted around the anticipated follow up from the film foundation, though the exact budget for any sequel remained a matter of public curiosity and industry speculation. This interest reflected the broader appetite for the film and its emerging stars, signaling a shift in how audiences connected with Uchitel’s storytelling approach.