Russian Film Director Defends Lead Actor's Silence on Ukraine War

Film director Ilya Khrzhanovsky has defended his decision to feature Russian conductor Teodor Currentzis in his new film "DAU," despite Currentzis's refusal to publicly denounce Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine. Khrzhanovsky stated, "everyone pays for his own choice" when questioned about his lead actor's stance during a press conference at the Venice film festival on Wednesday, September 4, 2026. The film "DAU," which premiered at the festival, centers on the life of Nobel prize-winning quantum physicist Lev Landau, with Currentzis portraying the titular character. Currentzis, a prominent figure in classical music and a Greek-Russian national, has faced significant criticism for his silence on the conflict, which began with Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The film itself is described as a large-scale artistic project that has been in development for over a decade, involving extensive filming and a cast of hundreds. Khrzhanovsky, known for his experimental approach to filmmaking, has previously directed "4" (2004) and "Stalker" (2009). The "DAU" project aims to recreate the Soviet Union's scientific and intellectual milieu of the mid-20th century, with Landau serving as a central figure. Landau, who received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1962 for his work on plasma physics, was a key figure in Soviet science. The controversy surrounding Currentzis's position highlights the complex intersection of art, politics, and international relations, particularly in the context of the war in Ukraine. Many artists and cultural figures have been pressured to take a public stance against the invasion, with some facing professional repercussions for their views or lack thereof. The Venice film festival, a prestigious international event, often becomes a platform for discussions on global issues, and the presence of "DAU" and its associated controversy has drawn attention to these broader concerns. Khrzhanovsky's comments suggest a belief in individual agency and the personal consequences of one's decisions, rather than a collective artistic or political obligation. The film's premiere at Venice marks a significant moment for the "DAU" project, which has been characterized by its ambitious scope and immersive production methods. The project has been described as an attempt to create a living, breathing recreation of a historical period, exploring themes of science, power, and ideology. The involvement of Teodor Currentzis, a celebrated conductor with a significant international following, adds another layer of complexity to the film's reception and the discussions it is likely to provoke. His refusal to comment on the war in Ukraine has put him at the center of a debate about the responsibilities of public figures in times of geopolitical crisis. The director's defense of his lead actor underscores the artistic freedom he perceives within the "DAU" project, even as it navigates sensitive political territory. The film's narrative focuses on Landau's life and work, but the surrounding discourse has been heavily influenced by the geopolitical context and the personal choices of its principal actors.