On April 2, 2025, the premiere screening of the film Batya 2. Ded took place at the Oktyabr cinema, drawing much attention from the public and media alike. The event was particularly notable as it was attended by participants of the "Moscow Longevity" project, a community initiative aimed at engaging the elderly in cultural activities. These attendees not only celebrated the film but also shared their own experiences of raising children and grandchildren, adding a personal touch to the evening.
The film Batya 2. Ded explores the nuanced relationship between generations, portraying a grandfather as not just a strict teacher but also a friend, keeper of folklore, and a source of family memories and wisdom. This narrative resonated deeply with many attendees, who found themselves reflecting on their own familial bonds. Irina Semenova, a participant in the project, expressed her sentiments, stating, "During the viewing, I caught myself thinking that I constantly remember my grandmothers and grandfathers." This connection to personal history was a common theme among the older audience members.
Valery Kirillov, another participant, shared his thoughts on the film, emphasizing its message about love and the transfer of values across generations. He remarked, "For me, this is a picture about how values, human qualities, love, and respect are passed on from generation to generation. The main thing we can pass on to our children and grandchildren is the ability to appreciate relationships between people." Such reflections highlight the film's broader themes of familial love and cultural heritage.
The premiere was not just a film screening but a gathering of creativity and inspiration. Many attendees from the "Moscow Longevity" project are not just film enthusiasts; they are also active participants in the arts, with some having experience in films and television. This event provided them with a chance to immerse themselves in the cinematic world and connect with fellow creatives. The project even features a special initiative called "Moscow Theater," where older adults can engage in theatrical arts under the guidance of professional actors, directors, and educators.
The film Batya 2. Ded is set to be released to the public on April 3, 2025, and features a talented cast including Evgeny Tsyganov, who plays the grandfather. The character is depicted as a strict yet caring figure, guiding the protagonist, Max, through his childhood during a summer spent in the village amidst the backdrop of the 1990s. This nostalgic setting adds a layer of warmth and relatability to the film.
At the premiere, Evgeny Tsyganov was accompanied by his wife, Yulia Snigir, and their children, both dressed in outfits reminiscent of a bygone era. Tsyganov shared insights into his role, noting that he did not know his grandfathers well, as he was a late child. He expressed a deep connection to the film's themes, saying, "I saw somewhere the trailer of Batya and paid attention to how Volodya Vdovichenkov and Andrey Andreev communicate. I thought it was necessary to look at this, because it seemed to me that this is an unusual role for Volodya, whom I saw in cinema more in the images of brutal gentlemen. And here is such a village and, indeed, a folk story, built on folklore. This folklore sits in each of us."
Among the notable guests were Tina Kandelaki, one of the film's producers, who boldly proclaimed the film deserving of an Oscar, stating, "It is about the fact that if you have a family, you will live forever." Her comments reflect the film's emphasis on the enduring nature of family ties and the impact of shared experiences.
The premiere also drew a host of celebrities, many of whom brought their children, reinforcing the film's family-friendly appeal. Notable attendees included Sergey Zhukov with his daughter Nika and sons, Ksenia Borodina with her daughters and fiancé, and director Ilya Uchitel, who humorously remarked that this was the first of his films without family involvement—though they all showed up for the premiere.
Filipp Kirkorov, who recently suffered the loss of his father, also attended the event, showcasing his resilience in the face of personal tragedy. He recalled how artists must continue to perform for their audiences even during difficult times, emphasizing the importance of connection through art. Kirkorov arrived dressed to impress, sporting a stylish outfit that included a jacket with wide shoulders and a beret, embodying the film's themes of nostalgia and familial warmth.
The participation of the "Moscow Longevity" project members added a unique dimension to the premiere, as they arrived in a limousine and enjoyed the spotlight on the red carpet. Their presence highlighted the film's message about the importance of intergenerational relationships and the value of storytelling in preserving cultural heritage.
As the evening unfolded, it became clear that Batya 2. Ded is more than just a film; it is a celebration of family, love, and the stories that bind us together. With its official release just around the corner, the film is poised to resonate with audiences of all ages, encouraging reflections on personal history and the enduring connections that define our lives.
