Andrei Urgant, the esteemed 68-year-old actor, recently shared his candid thoughts on modern cinema, particularly targeting the film 'The Flying Ship'. On March 14, 2025, during his appearance on the YouTube show LevCast, Urgant expressed his disapproval of the film's contemporary reinterpretation, which he found unsatisfactory due to its use of Leonid Agutin's song. "No, how is it? They took Agutin's song, for example, and inserted it in 'The Flying Ship'. What does Agutin have to do with 'The Flying Ship'?" Urgant remarked, illustrating his discontent with how classic narratives are altered to appeal to modern audiences.
Urging respect for original artworks, Urgant believes some cinematic treasures should remain untouched. His insights reflect broader concerns about the integrity of storytelling, particularly the altering of classic fairy tales which he claims dilute their inherent meanings. "We started to destroy this legend, filling it with some modern words and meanings... It became boring, uninteresting to argue," he lamented. He argues strongly against the notion of 'updating' old stories, insisting they often lose the essence of what made them compelling.
According to Urgant, the charm and value of classic narratives stem from their retro qualities. "There are some classic things which already work. They are valued because they are retro," he proclaimed, emphasizing how alterations might strip beloved stories of their depth and richness. His recollections resonate with many of his peers and viewers who also find solace and nostalgia within the frames of classic cinema.
While Urgant's heart leans toward the age of classic films, he does not dismiss modern actors altogether. Among the contemporary talents, he mentioned Mikhail Efremov, praising him as "such an artist", and expressing sincere wishes for his health and early release from prison. "Misha Efremov, such an artist, may God bless him with health and release soon... our friendship with him has not ended," Urgant stated, underscoring his loyalty and support for his fellow artist.
Urging filmmakers to retain the integrity of storytelling, Urgant's reflections are significant—highlighting the tension between tradition and modernity. His comments invite audiences to reconsider how stories are adapted and the impact this has on the legacy of original works. The debate surrounding the alteration of classic films is more than just about aesthetics or trends; it taps deeply at the heart of cultural heritage and historical significance.
Indeed, Urgant is not just voicing the sentiments of nostalgia; he's championing the values rooted within the narratives of yesterday. The stories we tell shape our identities, and as Urgant rightly notes, preserving them intact often honors the original legends and characters created by brilliant artists who came before.
Through heartfelt conversations like those with Urgant on LevCast, audiences gain insight not only about favorite fairy tales but also about the responsibility held by filmmakers to respect the narratives they choose to adapt. Will modern cinema heed these words, or will the trend of revisiting classics continue unchecked? This remains to be seen as the dialogue around adaptations evolves.
Undoubtedly, Urgant's strong connection to classic films and the actors of bygone eras like Andrei Mironov is palpable. He fondly recalls the greats of Soviet cinema and appreciates the impact they have had on his life and craft. "I was under his incredible charm; I wanted to dance and speak like him," he reminisced about Mironov's influence, illustrating how legacies are passed down through admiration and respect.
While some modern interpretations may fall short, Urgant's advocacy for preserving cinematic legacies ensures these narratives remain vibrant and respected. His critique shines a light on the need for film enthusiasts to engage with both classic and contemporary works thoughtfully, promoting dialogue and reflection on what makes storytelling meaningful.