The premiere of the highly anticipated film "Severny Polyus" took place on February 23, 2025, at the "Karo 11 Oktyabr" cinema in Moscow, drawing significant attention with key cast members including Andrey Merzlikin and Elena Sever gracing the event. Directed by Alexander Kott, the film delves deeply—both narratively and visually—into the harrowing expedition of the Soviet submarine K-3 during the Cold War.
The film depicts the actual voyage from 1962 when the K-3 submarine embarked on its mission to rise at the North Pole, traversing dangerous and icy waters. This groundbreaking endeavor was not merely another display of military might but also showcased the courage and innovation of the Soviet naval forces. Kott emphasized, “The first Soviet nuclear submarine, K-3, embarked on this challenging voyage under the Arctic ice,” during the premiere, encapsulating the gravity of the adventure. The film aims to connect contemporary audiences with this pivotal moment of human history.
During the event, Kott expressed his gratitude for the project, stating, “Every film is a new adventure. We met incredible people along the way. They inspired us and helped us make this movie.” The production relied heavily on authentic consultations with submariners and polar explorers to accurately represent the fierce realities faced by the crew. Producer Elena Sever added, “This huge historical project, which is very important for us, would not have been possible without our coordinated professional team.”
The characters are brought to life through powerful performances, particularly Merzlikin’s role as Captain Zhivtsov. He embodies the leadership and resolve required to navigate the submarine through treacherous conditions and mechanical failures, reflecting the historical tension during the Caribbean crisis highlighted by Kott: “For me, the time and theme are what matter most.”
The filming of "Severny Polyus" took five years—a laborious effort to get each detail right, aiming to evoke not just the action of the time, but the emotional and psychological struggles of those involved. The extensive shooting locations included not only major cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg but also various sites across the Arctic region, adding to the film's authenticity.
The film's release is scheduled for February 27, 2025, poised to capture the imagination of many. The premiere was attended by political figures, industry insiders, celebrities, and families of the cast, including Dmitry Peskov, the Russian President’s press secretary, underscoring the film's importance not only as entertainment but as part of collective historical reminiscence.
With the backdrop of the Cold War, "Severny Polyus" is not just a story of military might but also one of the indomitable human spirit and technological advancement, calling on viewers to reflect on bravery, courage, and the human connections made through adversity. Audiences are encouraged to experience the film and witness this incredible tale of heroism as it hits theaters.