Russian Film Festival Brings Cinematic Dialogue to Bahrain
Bahrain recently welcomed a new chapter in cultural exchange with the Russian Film Festival, held over three days at Reel Cinemas, Marassi Galleria. From September 18 to 20, audiences immersed themselves in a carefully curated lineup of films that celebrated Russia’s folklore, landscapes, values, and contemporary narratives. Full attendance across the screenings reflected the growing appetite for international cinema and cross-cultural dialogue in the Kingdom.
The festival opened with a vibrant event attended by representatives from the Bahrain Authority of Culture and Antiquities, H.E. Alexey Skosyrev, Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Bahrain, Ms. Oxana Frolova, Deputy CEO of Roskino, alongside media, VIP guests, and cultural tastemakers. This year’s edition carried special resonance, marking 35 years of diplomatic relations between Russia and Bahrain.
Speeches at the opening underscored cinema’s role as a universal language:
· Ms. Aysha Al Sada, Consultant for Cultural Affairs at the Bahrain Authority of Culture and Antiquities, noted, “This festival is more than a celebration of cinema, it’s a celebration of friendship.”
· H.E. Mr. Alexey Skosyrev highlighted the festival’s ability to deepen connections and showcase Russia’s diversity.
· Ms. Oxana Frolova added that the featured films reflected values of friendship, courage, and humanity.
The program balanced tradition and modernity. Finist, the First Warrior, inspired by Russian folklore, set the tone with fantasy rooted in heritage. Families gravitated toward Cats in the Museum, a charming animated exploration of one of Russia’s cultural landmarks. The festival closed with the emotionally charged Blood Type and Hockey Dads, leaving audiences with stories that lingered beyond the screen.
What distinguished the event was not just the films, but the spirit of exchange. Students, families, and cinema lovers came together in curiosity, proving how powerfully film can bridge cultures.
With its blend of heritage and contemporary storytelling, the Russian Film Festival has further strengthened the cultural ties between Bahrain and Russia, leaving audiences eager for future editions.
