Moscow International Film Festival

The Moscow International Film Festival (MIFF) is one of the world's oldest and most prestigious film festivals. It first took place in Moscow in 1935 and has been a regular feature since 1959. Initially, the festival occurred biennially, alternating with the Karlovy Vary festival, but since 1999, it has been held annually. The festival's highest honor is the Saint George statue, symbolizing Saint George slaying the dragon, as depicted on Moscow's Coat of Arms. Nikita Mikhalkov has presided over the festival since 2000.

Throughout its history, MIFF has celebrated acting talent with the Stanislavsky Award, honoring luminaries such as Jack Nicholson, Meryl Streep, and Catherine Deneuve. The festival's jury has featured prominent filmmakers from around the globe, including Jean-Marc Barr and Gérard Depardieu. MIFF also offers special programs, such as the "Free Thought" documentary series.

In 1972, the festival received "Class A" accreditation from the International Federation of Film Producers Associations, solidifying its status in the film world. The documentary section of the festival was spun off in 1988 to create the Leningrad International Festival of Documentary Films. The transition to an annual event happened in 1997, with Mikhalkov assuming the role of president in 1999.

MIFF has a rich tradition of awarding films in categories such as Grand Prix, Golden Prize, Golden St. George, and Golden George. Notable winners include "Come and See" "Dersu Uzala" and "The Naked Island." More recent Golden George winners include "The Secret of a Leader" from Kazakhstan and "The Lord Eagle" from Russia. The festival continues to be a significant platform for showcasing diverse international cinema, cementing its importance in the global film industry.