Australian Competitions Club

Russian cinema was relatively unknown in Australia until the Russian Resurrection Film Festival came along. This year the largest festival of Russian cinema outside of the mother country is celebrating a decade of cinematic offerings, returning to silver screens across the nation this July and August. Whilst originally appealing primarily to Russian expats, the festival has grown immensely in popularity, now fascinating a broad audience of cinephiles and Russophiles.

The lineup for this year's anniversary event features a collection of Russian cinematic riches, intricately blending the contemporary and the classic. It will showcase 18 new films, including two world premieres, Marathon and The Geographer. Other contemporary highlights include the animated delight The Snow Queen — which tells the heartwarming tale of a quest to save family, art and the hearts of people everywhere — and Legend No. 17, the highest grossing Russian film in history, which explores the life of ice hockey legend Valery Harlamov and how he captivated a nation.

If you prefer a classic take on Russian cinema, then check out the retrospective program on celebrated producer/director Valery Todorovsky. It features his cult hits My Stepbrother Frankenstein, Vice and Hipsters, among others.

The Russian Resurrection Film Festival is in Melbourne from July 3-16, Sydney from July 24 to August 7 and Brisbane from July 26 to August 4 — and thanks to the festival, we have 10 double passes to give away per city (passes valid for a film session of your choice). To be in the running, subscribe to our newsletter and then email hello@concreteplayground.com.au with your name and address.