There are people that are predestined for a great artistic career even prior to their birth. They carry uniqueness and the core of what they are to become in their genes and their upbringing. Nikita Sergeyevich Mikhalkov represents one such story. His film career is clustered with awards such as the Gold Lion, Palm D’Or, the Oscar, various Russian state awards, and all sorts of honours starting from Venice and Cannes, and all the way to Hollywood. Film titles such as Dark Eyes, Urga, Burnt by the Sun, The Barber of Siberia, and ’12’, are just a part of the magnificent work of the film maker Nikita Sergeyevich Mikhalkov, who has established himself as one of the most renowned artists of our time.
Extract from the winner’s speech:
‘... The Karic Brothers Award represents a special joy. I am grateful to you for this exceptional delight. However, I wish to ask you something altogether different. Why do you all look so gloomy? I fully understand and feel everything... However, as long as one has faith, a live mother tongue, a history, culture and tradition, there is no need to worry. Europe is under the impression that if it unites the 15 ‘aged ones’, it will get a ‘young one’ in return. That is wrong. It could only represent a good nursing home. You are still young; therefore do not hurry with the aim of booking a room on that ship. You have a bright prospect, and everything will turn out all right. Godspeed!’