The Russian director refused to "cut" his five-hour film for screening at the MIFF

The program of Special screenings of the 48th MIFF (Moscow International Film Festival) will include the Russian premiere of a new film by director, screenwriter, People's Artist of Russia Alexander Sokurov "Director's Notebook". According to the director, the screening of his film is a sincere desire of the organizers.

"Thank God that the film will be shown. I didn't make any effort to get the show — that's what the organizing committee of the festival decided. It was their active and consistent desire, so I am grateful to them," the NSN portal quotes Sokurov.

He clarified that the film runs for five hours, but the author did not plan to shorten it.

"Why? Those who are interested will watch it to the end, and those who are not will simply not come to view it. There are performances in theaters that go on for the same amount. It's not easy for a work of art, but it's quite acceptable," Sokurov believes.

He suggested that it was the duration of the picture that did not allow Russian President Vladimir Putin to watch it.

"He has so many worries right now that he doesn't have time for movies, but I hope that someday it will happen. I really hope and want this," the cinematographer concluded.

The 48th MIFF will be held in Moscow from April 16 to 23. About 200 films from 43 countries are participating in the festival, including 19 world and international premieres and 96 Russian premieres.

As EADaily reported, the premiere of the film "Director's Notebook" (Director's Diary) took place at the 82nd Venice Film Festival. The painting was shown outside the competition program.

The 305-minute documentary is based on Sokurov's diary entries, which he left from 1961 to 1965, recording not only the events of his own life, but also what is happening in the country.