28 November 2023
The National Cinema Center of Armenia has had a longstanding collaboration with cultural affairs officials from various foreign embassies in Armenia. This enduring partnership includes two important aspects in the film industry: the popularization and development of Armenian cinema. Shushanik Mirzakhanyan, the Director of the Cinema Center, discussed these matters and more in a recent meeting with Nathan Austin, the Cultural Affairs Responsible Officer at the American Embassy in Armenia.
The director of the National Cinema Center of Armenia presented several projects implemented with the New York Museum of Modern Art, including the first Armenian film ever to be preserved in the Museum’s archive- a newly printed 35mm copy of Hakob Hovnatanyan by S. Parajanov (4K restoration). The film is a part of the Parajanov "Triptych"—three short films ( "Kyiv Frescos” 1966, "Hakob Hovnatanyan" and "Arabesques on The Pirosmani Theme",1986).
As mentioned by the director, the collaboration between the NCCA and MoMA remains ongoing. Shushanik Mirzakhanyan familiarized the guests with another important program: the restoration and popularization of “The Second Caravan”, an unfinished film by Hamo Beknazaryan. The film touches upon the theme of the repatriation of the Armenians, who found refuge in the Northern American continent after the Armenian Genocide.
"In 2024 and 2025, we'll be commemorating two significant milestones: the 100th anniversaries of Sergey Parajanov and Charles Aznavour, both included in the UNESCO Calendar of Anniversaries of eminent persons and important events for the 2024-2025 cycle. In this regard, we have a lot to do to properly present to the public the significance that these two icons hold for our nation".
The meeting also touched upon the production of contemporary films and their significance, acknowledging the success of many in the prestigious international film festivals and award ceremonies. Discussions also revolved around the order and possibilities of state financial support for film production.
Shushanik Mirzakhanyan shared her strong belief that the classical Armenian film heritage is a unique treasure not granted to every nation. The artistic legacies of Beknazaryan, Parajanov, and Peleshyan will continue to captivate and fascinate, and this art needs to be properly appreciated and valued.
As the meeting concluded, Nathan Austin got familiarized with the Cinema Center's office space, he was also familiarized in brief with the installation of the restored outtakes from S.Parajanov’s 1969 masterpiece "The Color of Pomegranates" featured on the lobby screen. The installation was exhibited back in January 2019 at the St. Arminius Church as part of the Rotterdam International Film Festival.
Deeply impressed by Parajanov’s art, the American diplomat suggested discussing the possibility of exhibiting the installation in the future. Both parties agreed to engage in a more detailed conversation about some other programs.
