Russian Arctic drama The Universe Falls Asleep premieres in Nizhny Novgorod
The new Russian film The Universe Falls Asleep had its premiere in Nizhny Novgorod this week. Director Anton Mamykhin and lead actor Mark Eidelstein presented the movie to a hometown crowd at the Rekord Cinema Center. Both creators spoke warmly about the project's personal significance and the challenges of filming in the Arctic north. The story follows Pasha, a young student from St. Petersburg who dreams of space exploration but returns to a remote northern village after family troubles. Director and screenwriter Anton Mamykhin shaped the film as a coming-of-age tale about searching for belonging. Filming took place in Shoyna, a village in Nenets Autonomous Okrug, where harsh Arctic conditions tested the crew.
Mark Eidelstein, who plays Pasha, admitted the Nizhny Novgorod screening felt especially meaningful. Born in the city, he described the film as a reflection on finding home. He also noted strong personal connections to his character's struggles and aspirations. Mamykhin called the shoot difficult but rewarding. Despite the extreme environment, he praised the final result as exceeding expectations. The crew shared his satisfaction with how the film turned out.
The premiere marked the first public showing of The Universe Falls Asleep in Nizhny Novgorod. No details have been released about further screenings in other cities or at national festivals. The film, rated 16+, remains a local debut for now.
