Sergei Tarkovsky, a celebrated director, went to great lengths to express his admiration for Sergei Paradjanov, who was then incarcerated, by creating a drawing that his child had made and sending it to the imprisoned artist. This remarkable display of kindness did not go unnoticed, as Paradjanov not only meticulously annotated the drawing but also forwarded it to Mikhail Vartanov, a filmmaker who had been blacklisted, with the intention of sharing it with Vartanov's son, Martiros.
Vartanov's life was forever altered by the profound impact of a singular act of kindness, which ultimately led to a profound spiritual transformation. This transformative experience kindled within him a profound sense of admiration and reverence for the great filmmakers who had inspired him. In a gesture of profound respect and gratitude, Vartanov chose to honor the memory of his esteemed mentors by releasing his debut film, "The Last Film". This remarkable cinematic masterpiece was a poignant tribute to the enduring legacy of Tarkovsky and Paradjanov, two visionary filmmakers whose work had left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. Years later, the esteemed Criterion Collection would go on to release this groundbreaking film, further cementing its status as a masterpiece of modern cinema.
Vartanov's professional endeavors extended far beyond the realm of filmmaking, as he was a highly accomplished and well-educated individual, having earned a prestigious degree from the esteemed University of California, Los Angeles, commonly referred to as UCLA.
His impressive academic background and extensive knowledge in the field of filmmaking were widely recognized and respected, leading to his esteemed positions as a juror and curator at numerous prestigious film festivals, including those held in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, the bustling metropolis of Busan, and the esteemed DOC LA.
As a juror, Vartanov brought his expertise and discerning eye to the evaluation of various films, providing valuable insights and critiques that helped shape the future of the industry.
In his capacity as a curator, he played a crucial role in selecting and showcasing a diverse range of films, introducing audiences to new and innovative talent, and providing a platform for underrepresented voices to be heard.
Through his work at these esteemed film festivals, Vartanov demonstrated his commitment to the art of filmmaking and his dedication to supporting emerging talent, cementing his reputation as a respected and accomplished figure in the industry.
Vartanov's unwavering commitment to safeguarding and revitalizing the cinematic treasures of the past was exemplified through his relentless efforts in the meticulous restoration of the cinematic masterpiece "The Color of Pomegranates", a project that ultimately earned the esteemed recognition of being selected for the renowned Festival de Cannes.
