Heroes among us: the role of cinema in strengthening values discussed at the National Centre RUSSIA

---

The reality in which we and our children will live in the decades ahead is already being shaped today, including through the images of heroes on the cinema screen. Planning horizons and values as the foundation of long-term decisions in the film industry were discussed by speakers at the plenary session "Film Heroes — Architects of the Future. The Country and the World in 30 Years". The session, bringing together representatives of the state, the film industry and public figures, was held as part of the scientific and business programme of the two-day forum of the 3rd National Film Award "Heroes of a Great Country" at the National Centre RUSSIA.

The Chief of the Presidential Directorate for Social Projects, Sergei Novikov, described the "Heroes of a Great Country" award as a new way of looking at content — not from an industry perspective, but from a value-based one.

"It is important to look at what is being produced in our country — films and series — precisely from a value-oriented perspective: how well they convey values and offer role models, because we know that upbringing is only possible through examples. And we are living in a unique time, because these examples are among us <…> Films created today in the context of the special military operation are being shot in unique locations. Soon these locations will no longer exist, because the cities will be rebuilt. Filming is now taking place in real conditions, with risks to life, but as a result truly unique cinema is being created," Sergei Novikov said.

The Plenipotentiary Envoy of the President of the Russian Federation to the Ural Federal District, Chair of the Jury of the "Heroes of a Great Country" Film Award, and Hero of the Donetsk People’s Republic, Artyom Zhoga, noted that there should be room on screen not only for soldiers. A crane operator, a cameraman, a war correspondent — each of them has something to protect and something to be proud of, and it is precisely such stories that should form the basis of Russian cinema.

"Young people are our present and our future, and they should watch good domestic cinema. Heroes are not only those fighting on the front line, but also doctors, teachers, factory workers and war correspondents. The film award features films that show the importance of many professions. A hero’s true strength lies not only in physical fitness, but in strength of spirit and determination, in a strong family, friendship, love for the Motherland and readiness to sacrifice oneself for others. I believe films should be made about real people like them," Artyom Zhoga said.

The Director of the Information and Press Department and Official Representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia, Maria Zakharova, highlighted the key challenge facing Russian film content today: despite the depth of meaning and correct value orientation, it risks failing to reach its audience. According to her, without a well-structured delivery system, even the most powerful truth will not find viewers.

"We always emphasise one thing: the main thing is truth, facts, reality and values… But without a delivery system, unfortunately, everything bright and meaningful will remain without the possibility of reaching a wide audience… The West does not start from substance, but it has a powerful delivery system, and then anything can be thrown into that ‘fan’… We should study and rely on the experience of the Soviet period, when there was a certain system in place: films were not only created, but also brought to remote regions, including abroad," Maria Zakharova pointed out.

Theatre and film actor Igor Petrenko, a member of the jury of the Film Award "Heroes of a Great Country", noted that the award is a matter of national importance.

"Today a unique foundation is being formed, and we have a real opportunity to change something. It is as if a train is standing with its doors open, and in a moment they will close. We need more respect, faith and love for ourselves. We need to heal in order to once again radiate healthy energy, hope and belief in the future. I hope that the result of the Film Award will be the promotion of true values and the creation of a foundation for new achievements," Igor Petrenko concluded.

The Forum of the National Film Award "Heroes of a Great Country" was held at the National Centre RUSSIA from 11 to 12 February. During the scientific and business programme, representatives of the film industry, content creators, online platforms, education, business and the state discussed how to convey important national values and goals to audiences without cliches or moralising. The hero remained at the centre of attention as a key element of dramaturgy and the shaping of contemporary culture.