Natalya Fyodorovna Merkulova, a multifaceted Russian creative force, came into being on September 19, 1979, in the charming city of Buzuluk, situated within the picturesque Orenburg Oblast. The trajectory of her artistic endeavors commenced in 2013, marking the beginning of a fruitful collaboration with her husband, the accomplished filmmaker Alexey Chupov, with whom she has been working in perfect harmony ever since.
Noted Russian filmmaker, Merkulova, has garnered significant recognition for her outstanding cinematic endeavors, particularly her 2013 collaborative effort, "Intimate Parts", co-directed with Chupov, which received widespread acclaim following its premiere at the prestigious Kinotavr Film Festival, ultimately taking home the coveted Best Debut award.
This notable achievement was swiftly followed by her subsequent partnership with Chupov, culminating in the production of "The Man Who Surprised Everyone", which made its international debut in the esteemed Horizons (Orizzonti) section of the 75th Venice International Film Festival, further solidifying Merkulova's status as a rising talent in the world of cinema.
In the year 2021, a cinematic masterpiece was brought to life by the collaborative efforts of two visionary directors, Merkulova and Chupov, who jointly helmed the ambitious project "Captain Volkonogov Escaped". This critically acclaimed film had the privilege of being included in the main competition at the 78th iteration of the esteemed Venice International Film Festival.
