VLADIMIR ALENIKOV

The multi-award winning writer/director/producer, Vladimir Alenikov began his career in Soviet Russia when his first widespread success came with a series of children’s films featuring his own characters, “Petrov and Vasechkin.”
Turning to the stage in 1985, Alenikov wrote, produced, and directed the first Soviet-American stage musical entitled, “Peace Child” which was performed in 32 countries including the United States.
In 1990 Alenikov completed “The Drayman and the King,” the first Russian film musical. The film garnered several prizes in Russia and was an official selection at the Toronto International Film Festival and the American Film Institute Festival among others.
In August 1991, Alenikov captured the resistance to the Russian coup in his acclaimed documentary “The Awakening.” This was followed with an American-Russian co-production, “Time of Darkness” (aka “The Clearing”), starring George Segal.
Alenikov’s last American directorial work, “The Gun (from 6 to 7:30 p.m.)” addressed the topic of gun ownership in the United States. The film was the only American entry in the World Competition at the Montreal World Film Festival in addition to other festivals.
His latest romantic comedy, “God’s Smile or the Odessa Story” featured 138 characters travelling back in time. The film was selected by the Siskel Company to premiere in Chicago, Illinois and won 15 awards at different film festivals. His drama/thriller “Princess’ War,” tells the love dramatic story of a Russian girl and an Armenian refugee boy.

OLEG POGODIN

Oleg Georgievich Pogodin (born July 3, 1965 in Salsk) is a Russian film director and scriptwriter. Home was nominated for four Nika Awards, winning the one for the best male actor.