The anticipation built up to the premiere of the film "Rodnina" on March 4, 2025, at the Karo Oktyabr cinema, culminating not just from the cinematic portrayal of the life of Irina Rodnina, but also from the electrifying presence of numerous celebrities.
Among those attending were the 75-year-old figure skating legend herself, Irina Rodnina, alongside notable figures such as Tatyana Navka, Dmitry Peskov, Nikolai Tsiskaridze, and Oleg Menshikov. The excitement was palpable as audiences gathered to witness the story of the Olympic champion who overcame personal and professional hurdles to rise to greatness.
"Rodnina" is not merely about skating; it delves deep, exploring her battles through illness, betrayal, and conflict with coaches as she navigated the treacherous world of competitive sports. The film stars 21-year-old Vladislava Samokhina, who delivers her debut performance as Rodnina. At the premiere, the real Irina Rodnina expressed heartfelt praise for Samokhina’s powerful portrayal, which moved the actress to tears.
On stage, Rodnina reflected on the emotional weight of her story: "Honestly, going to the Olympics was easier than recounting this situation. When I watched the film, half of what I saw brought back memories." She highlighted her discomfort watching herself act but acknowledged the film's ability to convey the spirit of her era. "There is no chronology or historical accuracy; and perhaps that's for the best. The film feels more whole than life itself," she noted.
Rodnina's poignant reminiscences included the unforgettable moment she first won: "I was 18, and they immediately dubbed me the 'ice fighter'. I protested against this label." Such reflections enhanced the emotional depth of the premiere, leaving many attendees teary-eyed.
The premiere ceremony was vibrant with stars from various fields, reflecting Rodnina's legendary status not only as a sports figure but as a national icon. Tatyana Navka reminisced, "When I was little, I watched on TV as Rodnina stood on the podium with tears, dreaming I could experience such triumph myself."
The premiere also saw the reunion of athletes, actors, and local personalities. Maria Mironova, cast as Mikhail Bulanov's mother, shared how the movie sparked her son Fedor's passion for figure skating, illustrating the film's ripple effects beyond the silver screen.
Notably, Oleg Menshikov and his wife, initially rumored to be facing health troubles, attended and dispelled those worries, appearing joyful and full of life. Their presence, alongside other A-list guests such as Igor Krutoy, Dmitry Dyuzhev, and Valeria with Iosif Prigozhin, emphasized the celebratory atmosphere of the event.
Fans await the film’s public release on March 6, already stirring excitement with its portrayal of triumph against adversity. The excitement surrounding the film's narrative mirrors Rodnina's real-life achievements as a three-time Olympic champion (1972, 1976, 1980) and ten-time world champion.
This telling of sport's enduring influence, through the lens of personal struggle, promises to inspire audiences, reminding them of the incredible journeys behind every athletic milestone. Verily, the film presents not just Rodnina's accolades but her human spirit, marking its place as one of this season's must-see biographies.