Timur Bekmambetov today is probably one of the most successful Russian film directors. He’s totally at ease with the new technologies used in contemporary cinema and makes his films exceptionally entertaining. They generate lots of controversy and sometimes criticism, but this doesn’t stop people of all kinds of ages in all sorts of countries watching them with interest (or curiosity). Timur told me about his work in Hollywood, where he was invited after the success of his film “Night Watch”. To be honest, I found it quite hard to image how this outwardly calm and unhurried person could be the author of such dynamic films!

I think Timur Bekmambetov’s success lies in the fact that he remains true to himself, wherever he lives of works. He’s really obsessed with his work, totally engrossed in it, but without being fanatical, and with a clear and concise vision of the goal he is working towards. It’s really nice that Timur sees himself as a film director promoting Russia in the west, especially in a field in which they were often sceptical about our talents. You can learn all about it in “Steps towards Success” on REN TV at 1130 on Sunday 13 September.