Andrey Yakovlev Director Date of Birth: 02.04.1971 Country: Ukraine

Biography of Andrey Yakovlev

Andrey Yakovlev is a renowned film director known for his successful television series and romantic films. Despite being described as a "tyrant" on set, Yakovlev maintains a close dialogue with his actors, allowing for creative collaboration.

Yakovlev has gained recognition for his work on the popular television series "Svaty" (Matchmakers), which is currently in its fifth season. When asked about the future of the show, Yakovlev expressed his willingness to continue filming as long as the audience response remains positive. He attributes the success of the series to its simplicity and authentic portrayal of an ordinary family, deviating from the excessive violence and explicit content that viewers have grown tired of.

On set, Yakovlev establishes a familial atmosphere, although he acknowledges his authoritative approach towards directing. While he engages in discussions and debates with his actors, he maintains the final say in how a scene should be executed. As a writer for the series as well, Yakovlev possesses an intimate understanding of the script, knowing when creative deviations are acceptable and when they are not.

Prior to his work on "Svaty," Yakovlev was involved in the adaptation of the American series "Moya prekrasnaya nyanya" (My Fair Nanny). He modestly downplays his contribution to the show, recognizing the collaborative effort of the team. He also notes the relative ease of working on an adapted series, as the storylines were already established and only needed to be adjusted to appeal to the Russian audience.

One of Yakovlev's notable creations is the film "Lyubov v bolshom gorode" (Love in the Big City), which received mixed reviews due to its overly sentimental storyline. However, Yakovlev defends his intention to create a light and romantic film, acknowledging the scarcity of such movies in the Russian film industry.

In addition to directing, Yakovlev has also been involved in casting decisions. Despite criticism, he stands by his choice to cast non-professional actress Vera Brezhneva in one of the lead roles, asserting that she added an organic presence to the film. Yakovlev understands the importance of attracting viewers to achieve commercial success, and acknowledges the appeal that "star power" holds for audiences.

Andrey Yakovlev's works have made a significant impact on the Russian television and film industry, showcasing his ability to create compelling stories that resonate with audiences. With his unique approach to directing and a talent for capturing the essence of relatable human experiences, Yakovlev continues to be a prominent figure in the world of Russian entertainment.