The National Film Award "Heroes of a Great Country" to return to the National Centre RUSSIA

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Cinema should portray real-life heroes and instill values in young people. This is the focus of the IV National Film Award "Heroes of a Great Country", whose launch was announced at a TASS press conference. It is Russia's leading event dedicated to values-driven content, focusing on contemporary heroes and the ideas conveyed through cinema, while setting the direction for future film projects. Creators of feature films, documentaries, animated films and series can submit their projects via the official website. Entries open on 1 November.

"Russia has many people who rightly deserve to be called heroes. Some defend the country in the special military operation zone, protecting its independence and security. Others perform acts of heroism in peacetime: through their work, knowledge and talent, they help bring our victory closer, advance science, construct new buildings and devote their efforts to educating the next generation. The award categories for this year reflect a desire to recognise and celebrate different forms of heroism. They include heroes who defend the country, heroes of the family, service and honour, history and meaning, and heroes of science and technology. I believe it is especially important today to develop Russian cinema that helps people envision a brighter future and inspires young people to dream. Such films can show that Russia is a country of boundless opportunities. I would very much like to see films about strong families, dedication to one's work and genuine love for the Motherland," said Artyom Zhoga, Presidential Plenipotentiary Envoy to the Ural Federal District and Chair of the Jury of the National Film Award "Heroes of a Great Country", addressing the press conference participants.

Anna Tsivilyova, Chair of the Defenders of the Fatherland State Foundation, noted that the award celebrates the heroes of our time — scientists, doctors, teachers and all those who contribute to the country's development through their courage, talent and constructive work.

"I regularly meet with veterans of the special military operation. Today's heroes are not fictional characters, but real people who live among us, inspire others by their example and continue to serve their country in new ways — pursuing their professions, engaging in public service, taking part in sport, promoting patriotism and mentoring others. These stories need to reach a wide audience. It is especially important for young people to see examples of those who know how to take responsibility, overcome difficulties, support their comrades and work towards a shared future. I am confident that the stories of our heroes will resonate with audiences," she said.

Applications for the IV National Film Award "Heroes of a Great Country" will be accepted from 1 November until 9 December, the Day of Heroes of the Fatherland. The forum dedicated to the award and the official ceremony celebrating the winners are planned to be held on 10-11 March 2027. The National Centre RUSSIA will host the award ceremony for the second time.

"The awarding ceremony will take place at our venue for the second time, and I am confident that it will become a regular tradition. The mission and objectives of 'Heroes of a Great Country' fully align with those of the National Centre RUSSIA, established by order of our President, Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, to tell the story of our country, its achievements, traditional values and, of course, the heroes of the world's largest country. Do not hesitate to submit your work — Russia is a country of opportunities, and this award is another great chance to make your mark. We have many excellent films, especially about the Great Patriotic War, with carefully crafted performances and scripts. Let us think about how to preserve the legacy of great cinema. For example, we could establish a category within the award to showcase works adapted for contemporary audiences. Cinema is one of the most important industries, with an enormous influence on everyone, especially children. I am confident that the award will uncover many new talents," said Anastasia Zvyagina, Deputy Director General of the National Centre RUSSIA. She also proposed broadcasting the winning works of the National Film Award "Heroes of a Great Country" on federal television channels.

Mikhail Churbanov, General Producer of the National Film Award "Heroes of a Great Country", noted that despite the tight schedule of the award, filmmakers and film companies are highly organised and can meet the challenge. He also spoke about what cinema should aspire to achieve and stressed that young people will be involved in selecting the nominees.

"The award is held with the support of the Presidential Foundation for Cultural Initiatives at the country's principal presidential venue — the National Centre RUSSIA. This represents a great responsibility for both the organisers and those submitting their work to the competition. We are looking for projects that are skilfully made, demonstrate high production standards, inspire audiences, set ambitious goals and help shape individuals capable of building our country's future. This future is created through cinema of this kind. Heroes help viewers find their own path and develop the qualities and character traits that will lead to success — for themselves, for the teams they work with or for the causes to which they dedicate themselves. Most importantly, good cinema teaches us to cherish our families and friends, respect our parents and, when necessary, defend them and our country. May the best entries win," said the award's General Producer, Mikhail Churbanov, in his address to content creators.

The press conference was also attended by Vladimir Sterzhakov, Russian and Soviet theatre and film actor and Honoured Artist of the Russian Federation; David Manukyan, producer, singer and member of the Insight People talent association; Tatyana Tretyakova, producer of the National Film Award "Heroes of a Great Country"; and Igor Petrenko, Russian theatre and film actor.

The National Film Award "Heroes of a Great Country" was established in 2021 and is held every two years. It recognises films and series that promote traditional values, portray heroes in a positive light, contribute to educating young people, support the country's development and strengthen the unity of Russia's peoples. Its main objective is to identify and support projects that combine high artistic quality with a profound moral and spiritual message.

The award was established by the Strana (Country) Foundation for the Development of Culture and Cinema and is held with the support of the Presidential Foundation for Cultural Initiatives, the New Media Workshop of the Russia — Land of Opportunity presidential platform, the DNA of Russia project, Russian universities, companies, creative organisations and public associations. The National Centre RUSSIA is its strategic organisational partner.