A Russian cultural official said that he believes China-Russia collaboration in the film business will be mutually beneficial during a press conference on Monday for the first Moscow International Film Week (MIFW).

Alexei Fursin, head of the Department of Culture of the City of Moscow, speaks at a press conference during the first Moscow International Film Week (MIFW) in Moscow, Aug. 26, 2024. [Photo courtesy of the MIFW Organizing Committee]

"We see great potential in our cooperation with China, particularly in the film industry," said Alexei Fursin, head of the Department of Culture of the City of Moscow. According to the official, the MIFW will feature a two-day event focused on Russian and Chinese animations, with several sessions dedicated to the Chinese film market.

"We believe this is the beginning of a new era of collaboration that will benefit both countries," he stressed.

The MIFW, taking place from Aug. 23-28, has gathered 130 guests from over 40 countries, bringing together industry professionals, filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world. Fursin explained that the event is designed to showcase Moscow as a vibrant cinema city, offering a platform to explore the city's capabilities and infrastructure for film production.

"Moscow has never before hosted an event of this scale, uniting festival, exhibition and business programs under one roof," Fursin said. "Our mission is to demonstrate that Moscow is a true cinema city, providing a rich atmosphere that will inspire filmmakers and industry professionals alike."

A plenary forum session for exploring creative industries is held during the first MIFW in Moscow, Aug. 26, 2024. [Photo courtesy of Huyue Entertainment]

The weeklong event featuring over 200 activities across 100 locations around the city, including film screenings, masterclasses and concerts, is free and open to the public, highlighting Moscow's commitment to accessible cultural engagement. The program aims to boost Moscow's tourism appeal and attract global cinema enthusiasts, while also fostering international cooperation through its business program.

"We are creating new opportunities for collaboration between Russian and international filmmakers," Fursin added. "The film week will serve as a real platform for elevating these interactions to the next level, whether it's attracting international film crews to Moscow or exporting Russian content to global markets."

During a plenary session held on Monday attended by culture ministers, filmmakers and professionals from the creative industries, it was revealed that when Hollywood studios decided to leave Russia, the share of Russia's domestic films in the Russian film market grew from 22% in 2019 to 72% in 2023. Russia is also looking to import or co-produce content from and with countries such as China, Brazil, South Korea, Indonesia and Turkey.

A film set at the Moskino Production and Experience Park. [Photo courtesy of Huyue Entertainment]

Fursin believes Moscow is an attractive choice for Chinese filmmakers because of Russia's production facilities, digital support and logistical assistance. A day before the plenary session, a Chinese delegation toured the Moscow Film Industry Moskino Cluster and its sets, production and experience park. It is expected to be completed by 2030, covering an area of over 1,000 hectares, of which around 150 hectares have already been built. Once finished, the Moskino Production and Experience Park will become the largest film studio in Europe.

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