– The film adaptation of Vladimir Bogomolov's novel "Moment of Truth," also known as "In August 44..." has once again attracted the attention of viewers. A well-known version was released in 2001, followed by the mini-series "Operation Neman." Interestingly, attempts to film this story were made even during Soviet times, but at the author's request, all materials were destroyed.
The new work is currently being shown in Russian cinemas and is receiving positive reviews. The plot centers around human destinies and the eternal search for truth, which is key to my vision as a director.
The story has a mythological nature: three people strive for truth, and upon reaching it, they gain not only power but also immortality. Their abilities become incredible, but the path to truth requires effort.
This theme remains relevant today, as lies and distortions of truth have filled the space. It is very important to be able to discern the true.
The connection between events that happened 80 years ago and our reality is felt very strongly. Although this is a war drama, it is aimed at the modern viewer. I believe the film is balanced: on one hand, it is entertaining cinema, and on the other, it is a deep and serious work.
The memory of the war lives on in the consciousness of both those who experienced it and those who were born later. I am sure there is a genetic memory, and therefore this film speaks not only about the war but also about today — primarily about people.
– It is a great honor for us that our film opens the Festival of Russian Cinema. We wanted the film to be presented to the viewers of Kyrgyzstan so that they would know about modern Russian films and their popularity.
Why our film was chosen for this honor is a question for the organizers. We gratefully accepted the invitation, as it is important for us.
About Kyrgyz Cinema
– In the past, Kyrgyz cinema played a significant role in Soviet cinematography, but now, unfortunately, its history is not well known. I hope there will be an opportunity to get to know it better, as much has been lost over the years.
Impressions of Kyrgyzstan
– I have visited Kyrgyzstan before, but now I have the feeling that I am here for the first time. Not because of the novelty, but because a lot of time has passed. I hope I can explore the country a bit; there should be enough time.
When asked about the fear of comparison with previous adaptations, Vysotsky replied:
– If you are afraid of such comparisons, it's better not to start at all. We decided to work on this material because we found it interesting and relevant. When the work was completed, questions began to arise: “Why adapt it again?”. But there are works that will always be adapted.
How many versions of "Anna Karenina" exist? As a director, I can name a dozen. This does not hinder. Or "The Master and Margarita" — there have been several adaptations in recent years, and I am sure there will be more. This is not competition, but new interpretations of the same text.
Some claimed that our film is a remake of the 2001 version. But that is not true. We created an independent adaptation, another attempt to tell this wonderful story with unique characters.
Audience Reaction
– We hope that viewers will see our film, and there will be feedback. We tried to create a film that would interest and touch the audience. Negative reviews may occur, and that is normal, although, of course, we prefer to receive positive ones.
We wish for Russian cinema to become popular in Kyrgyzstan and to spark interest among viewers.
What Success Means
– There is no formula for success. But you can feel it. It happens when viewers leave the hall changed, when what you created makes them look at themselves and the surrounding world differently. When the viewer sees themselves in the hero — that is true success.
Reference:
The film "August," based on Vladimir Bogomolov's novel "Moment of Truth (In August 44...)," was presented in Bishkek as part of the Days of Russian Culture in Kyrgyzstan. The plot centers on three scouts who, in the last days of the war, seek not only truth but also the meaning of human existence.
