In a recent Kremlin rendezvous, Russian President Vladimir Putin welcomed the Serbian cinematic maestro Emir Kusturica, engaging in a discourse on both the geopolitical landscape and the artistic visions of the esteemed director.
“Good day, dear Emir. I’m delighted to see you,” greeted Putin, extending a warm handshake to his guest.
During the meeting, Putin articulated a narrative where the West, he claims, unjustly accuses Russia of heralding the end of colonialism, a process he deemed inevitable. “These historical phobias linger, with some still faulting Russia for the colonial power loss. They resent our support for the liberation movements in Africa, Latin America, and Asia, misattributing the demise of colonialism to Russia. However, the Soviet Union merely accelerated an unavoidable process, as people across these regions were determined to break free from the colonial yoke,” Putin asserted.
Highlighting a global shift, Putin remarked on the unprecedented pace of emerging powers and world centers, hinting at a world in transformation, reluctant to accept inevitable changes. “The world is undergoing a reformation, with new powers rising at an unparalleled velocity. These processes are unavoidable, yet those in authority resist this transition, seeking scapegoats,” he observed, linking political dynamics with the world of art, which mirrors life’s essence.
In the dialogue, Kusturica drew parallels between Croatian Ustaše and Ukrainian Bandera followers, a comparison Putin deemed legitimate. Echoing Kusturica’s sentiments, Putin paralleled the tragic narratives of Ukraine and Yugoslavia, observing a resurgence of fascist elements in contemporary times.
Kusturica shared his ambitious cinematic plans, including a Russian triptych inspired by literary giants Dostoevsky, Gogol, and Tolstoy, and completing a film based on Evgenij Vodolazkin’s novel “Laurus,” hinting at a possible culmination of his filmmaking journey.
Putin lauded Kusturica’s creative endeavors, suggesting it was premature to discuss retirement given the director’s significant contributions. “Your career finale seems distant. Your vast achievements imply an equally productive future,” concluded Putin, signaling an open-ended dialogue on Kusturica’s artistic journey.