Interview with Sarik Andreasyan, Director of “Guardians – The Superheroes”
Please find below the interview of Sarik Andreasyan, the director of Guardians – The Superheroes.
Sarik is known for Films like American Heist, Earthquake, The Pregnant and That was the Men’s world.
Here’s the interview
1. What inspired you to make the Guardians-The Superheroes?
Guardians – is a passion project of mine as I am a big fan of superhero films since I can remember myself. And not only from cinematic point of view (as we know superhero Movies are responsible for some new ways we see action movies in general) but also from a social and inspirational stand point. Kids and teens see superhero movies as something of an example of good fighting and beating evil. They learn that if you are different it doesn’t necessarily mean you lack something. It is very important for film to inspire people and superhero movies are perfect for it.
2. What sets it apart from other American superhero films?
It is a first of its kind product from Russia. There has never been such film from that part of the world and I believe that our superheros have a lot to offer in terms of cultural and national enrichment of ones cinema palette.
3. Did you ever think or fear that the film will be compared to many Hollywood superhero films
There is definitely no fear. I actually hope that it will be compared to a Hollywood superhero film because I’m pretty sure that “Guardians” are right there with them. It is a first of its kind product from Russia. There has never been such film from that part of the world and I believe that our superheros have a lot to offer in terms of cultural and national enrichment of viewer’s cinema palette.
4. Which films and directors influenced you while growing up ?
It is always a tricky question because, as we all know, there are so many. You’re always afraid that you will leave some out and then remember but it will be too late. All I know for sure is that when I first watched Goodfellas I understood the meaning of the word “influenced”. This is exactly what Martin Scorsese did to me – he influenced me to become a director. I watched this movie several times in a row back to back and that very night I knew what I want to do in my life.
5. You are one of the most sought-after filmmakers in Russia and are a successful name in Hollywood as well. what inspires you to make a film?
My greatest inspiration is my family. My kids inspire me to make films that will inspire them in return. Inspire them to be better people, to distinguish the bad from the good, to learn, to laugh, to cry. They are my fans, my critics, my most loyal Audience.
6. How familiar are you with the Indian film Industry and the films made here?
Due to being intrigued and mesmerized by your country, I’m always interested in Indian films or films about India. When I was little, growing up in USSR, Bollywood movies were extremely popular. I’ve watched “Seeta and Geeta” so many times – it’s not even funny. And I absolutely love that film. As well as I love the new modern wave that, once again, shows that talented people live everywhere on our planet. Such movies as “Slumdog Millionaire”, “Life of Pi”, “Lion” – all of them hold a special place in my heart.
7. You’ve made a film, American Heist, with American actors. How is the style of working different in America from Russia ?
Every single day, with every single frame film Industry becomes more and more global. Not only film making itself, but film producing, post-production, Marketing. America and Russia both offer great professionals in this field and if American market have been around since the beginning, Russian market’s slow but sure steps towards the overall quality are starting to become extremely noticeable in the last years. More and more movies are sold to international buyers. More directors and cinematographers are working in or for Hollywood now. More films – live action as well as animation – are getting international acclaim. The common goal is to make a great film that the Audience will enjoy – this what makes us all strive for greater quality.
8. Are you going to be watching the Oscars this year?
Definitely.
9. Which film are you rooting for at the Oscars?
All films that are nominated for the Best Picture are great in their own way. However, I would have been rooting for Martin Scorsese’s “Silence” but it was omitted this year by the Academy. To my surprise to be honest. Extremely powerful and gorgeous film by maestro himself.
10. Any American actor you would love to collaborate with?
There is just so many – it would be unfair to make me choose. The ones I would definitely wanted to work with are Robert De Niro and Al Pacino. That’s a definite.
11. Do you want to collaborate with Indian actors and make a film in India?
I am always open to new opportunities and making a film in India or about India would’ve been fantastic. Your country is such a unique and eloquent gem on the world’s map that it inspires people every day. Plus, I am a huge Mithun Chakroborty fan and watched a lot of films starring him. His persona, his acting and his unexpected popularity in Soviet Union have always intrigued me.
And don’t even get me started on the New Generation of Indian talent – Dev Patel, Freida Pinto, Aishwarya Rai, Priyanka Chopra! Just look at the names! Outstanding, professional and extremely talented!
