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Find out moreThe 4th online cinema festival "New Season" concluded on September 20 at the Rosa Khutor resort in Sochi. At this event, Russian streaming services presented their anticipated hits, opening them exclusively to industry professionals. Film critic Timur Aliyev attended all competition screenings and highlighted the five most exciting series worth watching in the upcoming season.
- "Vampires of the Middle Lane", Season 3;
- "Cyber Village", Season 2;
- "Heat";
- "Half-Life";
- "Tunnel".
The festival is a unique event that attracts the attention of viewers and participants with its diverse projects. An important aspect is the opportunity to learn about significant initiatives and successful projects presented in previous years. This helps to better understand the concept of the festival and its impact on the cultural space. Projects that stand out from the crowd become role models and inspire new ideas.
"Vampires of the Middle Lane"
Third Season.
Director Alexey Akimov is an outstanding representative of contemporary theater and cinema. His films are distinguished by a deep understanding of human nature and an original approach to storytelling. Alexey Akimov successfully combines traditional and modern directing methods, which allows him to attract the attention of a wide audience. His films and theater productions are noted for their high artistic value and critical acclaim. Akimov's works often explore complex themes such as love, loneliness, and social issues, making them relevant and resonant with audiences. The director is actively involved in cultural projects and collaborates with talented actors, which contributes to the creation of a unique viewing experience.
The Start platform offers users unique opportunities to realize their ideas. It is designed to support startups and projects at various stages of development. Through the platform, users can access resources, tools, and a community of professionals, facilitating the effective promotion of their projects.
The Start platform is easy to use, making it an ideal choice for both aspiring entrepreneurs and experienced professionals. A user-friendly interface and a wide range of available features allow you to optimize workflows and focus on core tasks.
Furthermore, Start actively supports its users through training and consultations, significantly increasing the chances of success. Investors and experts enable startups to gain the necessary knowledge and skills for further growth.
The Start platform is a reliable partner on the path to success for anyone who strives to develop their business and realize ambitious ideas.
Producer: Start Production. The company specializes in the creation of high-quality content and offers a wide range of production services. We guarantee a professional approach to each project and individual attention to client needs. Our team of experienced specialists ensures the full production cycle, from concept development to final implementation. By choosing Start Production, you get a reliable partner to bring your ideas to life.
Premiere: date not yet determined.
Third season of the series "Vampires of the Middle Lane" marks the final installment of one of the most popular Russian urban fantasy projects. Director Alexey Akimov, who returned to work on the series after serving as showrunner on the first season, played a key role in creating its unique universe. This season promises new, exciting plot twists and the development of beloved characters, making it a must-watch for fans of the series.
The series' sequel significantly expands its geography. The Ural vampires, referred to in the second season as the Supreme Council, now become full-fledged antagonists. Yegor Druzhinin's character, Boris Felixovich, returns as a villain and bloodsucker, a sinister antithesis to the Smolensk humanist, Grandfather Slava. This new plot twist adds depth and intrigue, allowing viewers to explore the darker corners of the series' universe.
Yuri Stoyanov remains a central figure in the series, continuing to captivate viewers. His role as the vampire grandfather, beloved by audiences since the first seasons, displays a surprising range of emotions: from warm embraces for his descendants to a fierce confrontation with the guardians of vampire secrets. The creators of the series masterfully crafted a unique image of a charismatic patriarchal hero, free from toxicity, possessed only by wisdom and charm. The character's astonishing vocabulary, with phrases like "Your tangled mess—you should comb it out" and "A nose like a nose, not a *** attached to your forehead," adds additional charm and depth to his portrayal. This character not only entertains but also provokes profound reflection, making the series especially appealing to a wide audience.
The series has undergone an interesting change: the role of Zhenya, previously played by Gleb Kalyuzhny, has now gone to Timofey Kochnev. This transition was implemented with humor—in the plot, the previous character's head is torn off, and a new one, from a different actor, is sewn on. This approach seems organic and adds originality to the plot development. However, it is worth noting that the interaction between the new Zhenya and grandfather Slava is not yet distinguished by strong chemistry, which may affect the audience's perception of the characters.
The finale of the series "Vampires of the Middle Lane" promises a spectacular battle between two opposing forces, which creates parallels with the final battle in "Twilight." It remains to be hoped that the third season will be the final one. Despite the high popularity of the project, the creators must take a step back and conclude the story in a way that viewers are left with only positive memories of the Smolensk vampire family, and not disappointment from the plot's protracted nature.
"Cyber Village"
Season: Second
In the second season, we will see the plot development that will capture the attention of viewers. The main characters will face new challenges and trials that will change their lives. The events will center on key conflicts that deepen the characters' personalities and reveal their internal contradictions. The second season promises to be full of emotions and unexpected twists, making it unforgettable for fans. This season will be a significant milestone in the story's development and will help you better understand the characters' motivations. Prepare for exciting events and intriguing storylines that will leave no one indifferent.
Director Sergei Vasiliev is a prominent figure in the world of cinema. His works are distinguished by a unique style and profound character development. Vasiliev has created numerous films that have won acclaim from both audiences and critics. He actively utilizes innovative approaches in his work, allowing him to remain at the forefront of Russian cinema. Importantly, Sergei Vasiliev's films often address current topics and social issues, making them particularly relevant to modern audiences.
The Kinopoisk platform is one of the leading online resources for movie and TV series enthusiasts. It provides users with extensive access to information about films, TV series, actors, and directors. On Kinopoisk, you can find reviews, ratings, and recommendations, helping you choose interesting content to watch. The platform also offers the ability to create personalized lists and track your viewing history. With its user-friendly interface and extensive database, Kinopoisk has become an indispensable tool for movie buffs and those who want to stay up-to-date with the latest releases in the world of cinema.
Production: Place of Power, Plus Studio - these are companies that create high-quality content. Their experience and professionalism allow them to develop unique projects that meet modern requirements and audience expectations. Both studios have established themselves in the market thanks to their innovative approach and attention to detail, which makes them reliable partners in the field of media content production.
The premiere will take place on October 18.
The second season retains the original's bold and provocative tone while taking on a sharper satirical undertone. In the opening episodes, viewers find themselves in the space prison "Venerovsky Central," from which the authorities claim escape is impossible. Thinkers, members of parliament, and other prominent figures serve their sentences there. While some inmates pursue creativity, creating 4K tattoos and performing in a local choir, others, like farmer Nikolai, plan a daring escape. The satirical approach to prison life and the character interactions make this season even more engaging and relevant for modern viewers.
After a long period of imprisonment, Nikolai finds freedom and finds himself in a wild, future Moscow, which has separated from Earth and is now drifting through space. This new world is populated by frenzied tribes who survive amidst the chaos. One such tribe is led by Pavel Derevyanko, who shares the story of how Muscovites arrived at this existence—without the usual couriers, scooters, neural networks, or annual tile renovations. This story immerses the reader in the unique atmosphere of post-apocalyptic Moscow, exploring the consequences of the loss of civilization and societal changes.
The sequel actively continues the cosplay of popular Russian series such as "Unprincipled" and "Two Hills," where wild Moscow resembles the world of "The Hills." Despite the entertaining nature of the first episodes, the creators of the second season do not forget about social themes. The main character, Nikolai, yearns for his family, which is the most important thing in his life. The humor sometimes borders on the edge, as in the jokes about Muscovites who, after years of relocation, dream of returning to Earth, to their native lands. Overall, this cyberpunk road movie maintains its high standards, combining elements of Russian chthonic literature with witty techniques and current trends. This balance between entertainment and thought-provoking insights makes the project appealing to a wide audience and underscores its significance in the context of contemporary Russian television.
"Heat"
Season: First
The first season offers a unique opportunity for viewers to get acquainted with new characters and plots. It lays the foundations on which subsequent events will develop. This season, viewers will be able to see how the characters face various challenges, form their relationships, and reveal their true motives. Intrigue, drama, and unexpected plot twists make the first season captivating and memorable. It's the perfect time to immerse yourself in the world created by the creators and appreciate their creative approach to storytelling. With each episode, viewers discover new facets of the story, making the first season not only a launch but also an important stage in the development of the entire project.
Director Artem Aksyonenko is a talented professional known for his outstanding work in film and theater. His creative approach and unique directing style attract the attention of audiences and critics. Aksyonenko actively experiments with form and content, creating unique works that leave a deep imprint on viewers. His works are distinguished by original plots and meticulous character development, making them memorable and relevant. The director strives to ensure that each of his works reflects the richness of human emotions and experiences, allowing viewers to empathize with the characters and immerse themselves in their world.
The Ivi platform is one of the leading online services for watching films and TV series in Russia. It offers a wide range of content, including new releases, classic films, and original series. Users can enjoy high-quality videos in a convenient format, as well as take advantage of various features such as collections, recommendations, and the ability to create personalized favorites lists. Ivi constantly updates its library to meet viewer demand and offer relevant content. The platform is available on various devices, providing users with flexibility and comfort when viewing their favorite works of art.
Producer: "World Russian Studios"
Premiere: date not determined.
"Heat" is an original authorial statement on the essence of creative genius. The protagonist is an eccentric Moscow chef, Mark Levinsky, whose culinary talent is inextricably intertwined with his destructive nature, neurasthenia, and irascibility. In the opening scenes, Mark is fired from a fine-dining restaurant, which becomes a turning point in his life. He meets a young man named Aaron (Mark Eidelstein), who dreamed of joining the chef's team. Together, they decide to open their own restaurant, which becomes not only a professional challenge but also an opportunity for self-expression and overcoming internal conflicts. The film "Heat" explores the complex aspects of culinary art and personal growth, emphasizing the importance of passion and creativity in the world of haute cuisine.
Daniil Vorobyov's performance is particularly noteworthy. His transformation on camera is so impressive that at times he is unrecognizable. Using prosthetic makeup, Vorobyov created a multi-layered character in constant conflict with the world around him. This character unreasonably pushes away everyone around him, adding depth and complexity to his role. Daniil's creative approach to acting allows him to convey inner experiences and emotions, making the character truly alive and memorable.
The director crafts the narrative as an immersion into a world of creative obsession. The kitchen serves as a metaphor for an artistic laboratory where character, habits, aspirations, and ambitions are formed. For Levinsky, cooking is not just a way to earn a living, but a true art form. A chef's skill is an expressive form of self-expression that sometimes intersects with delusions of grandeur.
The series' soundtrack is live jazz music, created specifically for this project. The first episodes lack noticeable camerawork experiments, but do contain interesting plot twists. Screenwriter Andrey Stempkovsky, known for such works as "Whirlpool" and "Kept Women," strives to combine personal drama with a variety of genres. The series features elements of erotic thriller, crime drama, and even hints of action. Early on, the series struggles to clearly define its genre identity, which piques interest and leaves viewers anticipating further developments.
The film "Heat", created in collaboration with "Ivi" and NTV, is a unique film experiment that will capture the attention of viewers. Behind the seeming provocation lies deep reflections on the nature of creativity. However, at the moment, understanding this idea is not so easy.
"Half-Life"
Season: First
Season one represents an important stage that lays the foundation for the further development of the plot and characters. In this season, viewers are introduced to the main characters, their motivations and conflicts. Each episode reveals new aspects of their personalities and relationships, which makes the plot more captivating and multi-layered.
Season one also creates a unique atmosphere that draws viewers in and immerses them in the world of the story. Established storylines and key themes create intrigue and make you want to follow the events.
It's important to note that the first season serves not only as an introduction to the main story but also to build a dedicated audience that will support the project in the future. This is the time when the plot is laid and the characters are first introduced, making it an unforgettable experience for viewers.
Maxim Sveshnikov is a talented director known for his unique approaches to film and theater production. His works are distinguished by their original style and deep character development, making each production memorable. Sveshnikov combines classical and modern techniques, bringing innovative ideas to his projects. Thanks to this, his films and performances receive recognition from both audiences and critics. The director is actively involved in various cultural projects, contributing to the development of theater and cinema in Russia.
Okko is a modern streaming platform offering a wide range of films, series, and cartoons. With Okko, users can enjoy high-quality content on a variety of devices, including Smart TVs, computers, and mobile phones. The platform offers a user-friendly interface and simple navigation, making finding your favorite content quick and easy.
One of Okko's key advantages is the availability of exclusive premieres and original projects, making it attractive to film buffs. Additionally, subscribers have access to various tariff plans, allowing them to choose the most suitable option based on their needs and preferences.
Okko also actively updates its library, adding new releases and popular hits, ensuring users always have a relevant and varied selection. Thanks to high-quality picture and sound, the platform provides an unforgettable viewing experience.
The Okko platform continues to evolve, introducing new technologies and improving the user experience, making it one of the leading streaming services on the market.
The production company "Sreda" is engaged in the production of high-quality content. We focus on creating unique projects that engage audiences and align with current trends. Our team of professionals develops and implements a variety of formats, including film, television, and digital media. With its innovative approach and high level of expertise, Sreda strives to create works that will leave a mark on the entertainment industry.
Premiere: date not yet determined.
Director Maxim Sveshnikov and screenwriter Oleg Malovichko present a historical drama dedicated to the Totskoye military exercises in the USSR. In September 1954, a nuclear bomb was tested at the test site without prior notification to local residents. The film "Half-Life" is a powerful anti-war manifesto and one of the first such works in modern Russian cinema. This film raises important questions about the moral aspects of war and the consequences of nuclear testing for humanity.
Two time periods—1954 and 1988—intertwine, creating a single tragic story. Journalist Nadezhda Keller, played by Anna Mikhalkova, decides to investigate the abnormally high mortality rate from cancer in her home region. Her father's death from cancer and the successful treatment of her teenage son, who had part of his thyroid removed due to radiation poisoning, push her to this step. Nadezhda's steely determination overcomes the doubts of the newspaper's editor-in-chief, played by Philipp Yankovsky, as well as the fears of local residents who fear repercussions for their revelations, as "they'll give you a slap on the wrist, it's a state matter." This production raises important questions about health, ecology, and social responsibility, forcing viewers to consider the impact of radiation exposure on people.
The series "Half-Life" was filmed using both film and digital cameras, a rare approach in the Russian streaming industry and reminiscent of the image experiments characteristic of Christopher Nolan. This project is a sincere statement on a relevant topic, adapted to contemporary realities. "Half-Life" demonstrates that modern online cinemas are capable of creating not only entertaining content but also true works of art. This series awakens inner feelings, forcing viewers to reflect, question, and grapple with internal conflicts. It invites reflection and drawing parallels, making it an important contribution to the development of high-quality Russian content on streaming platforms.
"The Tunnel"
The first season represents a unique opportunity for viewers to immerse themselves in a world of new characters and gripping storylines. It lays the foundation for further development of the story, introducing the audience to the main themes and conflicts. This season, you will be able to observe the dynamics of the relationships between the characters, as well as their internal conflicts. Each episode reveals new aspects of the plot, building tension and intrigue. The first season is a launching pad that sets the tone for future events, captivating viewers and leaving them wanting more.
The director of this project is Fluza Farkhshatova. She is known for her unique style and ability to create deep and memorable works. Fluza Farkhshatova brings fresh ideas and original approaches to her work, making her work in demand and engaging for audiences. Her experience and professionalism allow her to successfully implement even the most ambitious ideas, creating high-quality content.
Kion is a modern streaming video platform offering a wide selection of films, series, and shows. The service provides users with high-quality content accessible on a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and Smart TVs. Kion offers a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to find and watch your favorite films and series. The platform regularly updates its catalog, adding new releases and exclusive content. With flexible pricing plans, Kion meets the needs of various users, providing access to high-quality content at a reasonable price. Users can also take advantage of the offline viewing feature, making Kion a convenient choice for viewing anytime, anywhere.
The film is produced by Kionfilm and Team Films in cooperation with the NTV channel.
Premiere: the exact date is not yet known.
Customs officer Sveta Suvorova, played by Elizaveta Boyarskaya, is distinguished by her restraint and strictness. She cannot find common ground with her colleagues, as she adheres to principled views, while in their circle it is customary to resolve issues "humanely." At customs, they often turn a blind eye to absenteeism, lateness, and even passenger inspections. However, the situation changes when the Finnish mafia begins to threaten her husband, Sergei Gilev, who is heavily indebted to the gangsters due to his gambling addiction. Sveta must make a difficult choice: abandon her principles and make a risky deal to save her husband. This story raises important themes of morality and responsibility, exploring the lengths a person will go for love.
Director Fluza Farkhshatova invites viewers into the criminal underworld on the border between Russia and Finland. From the very first minutes, the series creates a tense atmosphere: close-ups of characters, unsettling music, and a gray filter that imbues even an ordinary school scene with children with a sense of melancholy and hopelessness. The plot centers on the transformation of Sveta Suvorova, masterfully played by Boyarskaya. The plain woman, known at school as a "mouse," faces a choice: law or family, duty or love. As a result, she transforms into a ruthless hunter of smugglers, willing to do anything to save her loved ones. Suvorova becomes a predator, gaining strength and accepting herself, along with all her weaknesses. This series touches on important themes of morality, choice, and overcoming internal conflicts, making it relevant and appealing to a wide audience.
The creators of the series pay significant attention to the details of the customs service. Strict search and interrogation procedures, the emotionless faces of smugglers transporting illegal substances in the most unexpected places create an authentic atmosphere, free from clichés and stereotypes. The first episodes represent not only a sophisticated psychological detective story but also a profound portrait of a modern woman forced to violate her strict principles to protect her loved ones and resolve conflicts with the demons of her past. The series demonstrates the complex moral choices and internal contradictions of the heroine, which makes it especially relevant in the modern context.
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The absurdity of existence, dacha adventures, and the spirits of Bashkiria are themes explored by young filmmakers at the New Movement festival. The festival is a unique platform for young filmmakers eager to share their work and views on pressing social issues. The focus is on stories that explore the absurd aspects of life, as well as the exploration of dacha culture and the natural heritage of Bashkiria. This event promotes the development of cinema in the region, providing an opportunity for new talent to shine and draw attention to important issues through the prism of art. The New Movement festival becomes a place for meetings, discussions, and the exchange of experiences for everyone interested in contemporary cinema and its possibilities.
What is this festival?
The New Season online cinema festival was founded in 2022 with the aim of showcasing the achievements of Russian streaming services. The festival was conceived by Eduard Iloyan, General Producer of Yellow, Black, and White. During the event, viewers can see the first episodes of new series and feature films, which will later be available in Russian online cinemas. The festival has become an important platform for presenting domestic content and attracting attention to new projects in digital cinema.
The festival is organized by major players in the streaming industry, such as Kion, Okko, Premier, Start, Wink, Ivi, and Kinopoisk. The organizers previously also included the more.tv platform before its merger with Wink. The director and producer of "New Season" is Polina Zueva, who produced the Kinotavr festival in Sochi until 2021. The festival does not have a single program director; each platform independently selects two series and one film for screening, or three series if there is no feature film. This allows the festival to present diverse and relevant works reflecting modern trends in the world of TV series and cinema.
Festival screenings are held in the Rosa Hall concert complex. In 2025, David Kocharov, General Producer of Rutube and Premier, became Chairman of the Board of Trustees. This position rotates between services each year: Start chaired the festival in 2022, Okko in 2023, and Wink in 2024. The Board of Trustees annually presents a special festival prize, "Discovery of the New Season," which recognizes outstanding achievements in film and media production. This event attracts the attention of film professionals and enthusiasts, creating a platform for discussing new trends and artistic solutions.
Which projects from previous years' program are worth watching?
In 2022, numerous projects were released that made a significant impression on audiences. Among them, the dark fantasy "The 13th Clinical" starring Danila Kozlovsky and Paulina Andreeva stands out, telling the story of people confronting supernatural phenomena. Also worth noting is the touching drama "Alice Can't Wait" directed by Natalia Meshchaninova, which not only introduced the young actress Elizaveta Ishchenko to a wider audience but also won festival awards. These projects have become important events in the world of film and television, highlighting the diversity and creativity of the Russian industry.
In 2023, director Ilya Ermolov presented his drama "Golden Bottom" at the New Season festival. It explores the complex relationships within a family of wealthy heirs facing inheritance issues. First-time viewers also had the opportunity to see the Russian fantasy film "Cybervillage," inspired by the viral videos of the popular YouTube channel Birchpunk. The festival's main winner was the series "The Boy's Word. Blood on the Asphalt" by director Zhora Kryzhovnikov, which immerses viewers in the world of Kazan gangs of the late 1980s. This work stands out for its vibrant presentation and relevant themes, making it significant in the context of contemporary Russian cinema.
In 2024, the festival program included Dusan Gligorov's series about the death penalty "Outsource," which became the main discovery of the "New Season." The family drama "Children of Change," created by the directing duo of Sergei Taramaev and Lyubov Lvova and set in the 1990s, attracted particular attention from viewers. The festival also presented a new project expanding the bogatyr universe launched by Russian Disney: the series "The Last Bogatyr. Legacy" by Anton Maslov, produced with the support of the Rossiya 1 television channel and the IRI. These works demonstrate the diversity and depth of contemporary cinema, attracting the attention of both critics and audiences.
