Woody Allen to Spotlight Moscow International Film Week as Keynote Speaker

American director Woody Allen will be the featured guest at the Moscow Mayor’s Office film festival set to commence this weekend, organizers announced.

The 89-year-old, who has won four Oscars, is highlighted as the esteemed guest at the Moscow International Film Week, taking place from August 23 to 27. Reports suggest he will participate online rather than attend in person.

Inaugurated in 2024, the festival aims to showcase screenings, lectures, and business forums to elevate Moscow’s status as a global center for filmmakers and film enthusiasts.

Allen is slated to lead the “Legends of World Cinema” segment at the Moskino studio on Sunday, with the conversation moderated by Russian filmmaker Fyodor Bondarchuk.

According to the festival’s website, “Woody Allen, whose films have become significant cultural icons and exemplify auteur cinema, will engage with Russian audiences in this new format for the first time.” The discussion is described as a “lecture-dialogue,” intended to provoke “thoughts on cinema and life, including topics of choice, inspiration, and integrity in the profession.”

Additional notable guests include American actor and martial artist Marc Dacascos and Serbian filmmaker Emir Kusturica, known for his pro-Kremlin stance, as indicated by the organizers.

Allen’s representative has yet to reply to a request for a statement.