From Ice Rink to Silver Screen: Maxim Shabalin Emerges as Director at Amur Autumn Festival

From Ice Rink to Silver Screen: Maxim Shabalin Emerges as Director at Amur Autumn Festival

Maxim Shabalin’s Cinematic Debut

The 21st annual Open Festival of Cinema and Theatre, “Amur Autumn,” recently held in Blagoveshchensk, saw an unexpected star emerge. Former figure skater turned director, Maxim Shabalin, well-known for his world championship win with partner Oksana Domnina, stole the spotlight with his debut feature film “Seasons”.

Shabalin’s “Seasons” won the hearts of the audience jury, securing the title of the best film. The former figure skater also took home the award for best script, which he had penned himself. Adding to the family’s triumph, Shabalin’s wife, Irina Grineva, who also plays the lead in the film, was awarded the best female role.

Expressing his joy and gratitude, Shabalin said it was a privilege to premiere his film in a full hall. He also shared a heartwarming encounter with an audience member who admired his work, which he felt was reflective of the overall warmth and welcoming nature of the festival.

Sergei Savin’s Unexpected Appearance

In an unexpected twist at the festival, Sergei Savin, the winner of the “Factor A” TV show on the “Russia” channel in 2011, reemerged. Savin was once favored by renowned singer Alla Pugacheva, who sponsored his music videos, studio recordings, and even rented an apartment for him.

Despite rumors of an imminent marriage, Pugacheva eventually married another man. However, Savin’s efforts to win the hearts of influential women did not cease. At the “Amur Autumn,” he attempted to woo actress Evelina Bledans.

Bledans shared that Savin was quite forward, often hugging her and even touching her inappropriately. While she expressed discomfort with his brash behavior, she admitted that she usually finds such boldness attractive in men.

A Festival to Remember

The “Amur Autumn” festival this year was a memorable one, marked by the triumph of Maxim Shabalin and the unexpected appearance of Sergei Savin. With Shabalin’s successful transition from figure skating to directing, it will be interesting to see what the future holds for him in the realm of cinema. Meanwhile, Savin’s audacious attempts to charm Bledans added a dash of intrigue and drama to the festival.

Events like these not only provide a platform for budding talents but also serve as a melting pot of diverse personalities, stories, and experiences. Each year, “Amur Autumn” brings together a unique blend of cinema and theatre, and this year was no exception.