From August 26-29, Russia’s Consulate General in Erbil is organizing four Russian cinema nights in Sami Abdulrahman Park.

The film screenings are free of charge and are being held as part of the annual nationwide “Cinema Night” initiative. They coincide with Russian Cinema Day, celebrated on August 27. 

More than 60 countries will join the initiative, with screenings taking place at more than 5,000 venues.

“This year, the initiative is being held for the 11th consecutive year in Russia and abroad, with the support of the Russian Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia,” Vasilii Vavilin, Press Secretary of Russia’s Consulate General in Erbil, told Kurdistan Chronicle.

The program features three major Russian films released this year, including: “Angels of War,” a historical war drama about the heroic deeds of athletes who, during the Siege of Leningrad (present-day St. Petersburg), carried out dangerous missions on the ice of Lake Ladoga; “The Golden Key, A New Pinocchio Story,” a new interpretation of the beloved fairy tale, in which the protagonist embarks on a series of extraordinary adventures, finds true friends, and uncovers the secret of the magic key; and “Chebi 2,” a continuation of the story of the beloved and charming character, who faces new discoveries, unexpected encounters, and touching family adventures.

“The 2025 edition of ‘Cinema Night,’ marking its tenth anniversary, was attended by around 830,000 people in Russia and 37 countries. Notably, the geographical reach of the initiative continues to expand each year,” Vavilin added.

“The Consulate General would like to express its gratitude to the [Kurdistan Regional Government] Department of Foreign Relations, the Erbil Governorate, and the administration of Sami Abdulrahman Park for their assistance in organizing the event. Special thanks also go to Sawa School and personally to Mr. Hoshmand Mustafa.”

Program:

August 26, 7:30 pm — Angels of War (12+)

August 27, 8:00 pm — The Golden Key, A New Pinocchio Story (6+)

August 28, 8:00 pm — Chebi (6+)

August 29, 8:00 pm — Chebi 2 (6+)

Venue: Sami Abdulrahman Park, Erbil