In a heartfelt ceremony held on March 24, 2025, in Moscow, the film community came together to honor the late actors Evgenia Dobrovolskaya and Roman Madyanov at the prestigious Nika Award ceremony. Both actors received posthumous awards for their remarkable performances, with Dobrovolskaya winning for her role in the film Worse Than Everyone and Madyanov recognized for his outstanding work in Love of the Soviet Union.
The Nika Award, established in 1987, is one of the most significant honors in Russian cinema, celebrating artistic achievements and talents. Awards in major categories are determined by a voting body comprising over 500 professionals in the industry, ensuring a credible and representative selection process. This year’s ceremony was especially poignant, as it highlighted the contributions of two beloved figures in Russian film, both of whom have profoundly impacted the cinematic landscape.
During the ceremony, producer Fedor Popov spoke emotionally while accepting the award for Dobrovolskaya, stating, "I am touched by this award precisely because it was received by Evgenia. There are no words to express all my feelings for her. She was truly a great actress." This sentiment echoed throughout the event, as many recalled Dobrovolskaya's vibrant energy and dedication to her craft.
Dobrovolskaya, who passed away on January 10, 2025, at the age of 60, had a celebrated career spanning over three decades. With more than a hundred films to her credit, she left an indelible mark on audiences and fellow artists. Notably, she had spent her last years performing at the Chekhov Moscow Art Theater, earning acclaim for her roles both on stage and on screen.
Roman Madyanov's son, Roman Madyanov Jr., accepted the award on behalf of his father, who passed away on September 25, 2024, at the age of 62. His acceptance speech was filled with emotion as he shared, "Thank you very much to the Cinema Academy, the viewers, and everyone who remembers my father. Tomorrow, the 25th, will be six months since he has passed. I think he would be very happy to see he has another 'Nika'". This declaration not only honored his father’s legacy but also highlighted the collective grief of a community mourning their loss.
The atmosphere throughout the ceremony was a blend of celebration and solemnity. As attendees reminisced about the talents of Madyanov and Dobrovolskaya, the night took on a deeper significance. Following the awards, a touching video montage showcased both actors in archival footage, including previous award ceremonies where they shone with charisma and passion. This tribute served to remind all in attendance of the immense contributions these artists made to the profession.
The Nika Award remains a unique symbol of recognition for cinematic achievements in Russia. Its establishment was inspired by the desire to honor excellence in film—a commitment deeply rooted in the union of filmmakers that began back in the late 1980s. The awards stand as a testament to the enduring quality of Russian cinema, which continues to evolve despite challenges over the decades. This year's ceremony served not only as a recognition of contemporaries but as a homage to the artistic trailblazers who paved the way.
As the night concluded, there was a palpable sense of gratitude for the legacies of Dobrovolskaya and Madyanov. Their work will forever echo in the hearts of fans, resonating with those who had the fortune of witnessing their talents unfold on screen. The Nika ceremony of 2025 emphasized the communal love and respect held by those in the film industry, ensuring that the memories of great artists will never fade.
In remembering their lives, the Nika Award made it clear that while the world may have lost two incredible talents, their art—and the joy it brought—will continue to flourish, shaping the future of Russian cinema for generations to come.
