Victor Merezhko Screenwriter, TV presenter Date of Birth: 28.07.1937 Country: Russia

1. Early Life and Education
2. Start of a Screenwriting Career
3. Breakthrough in Film
4. Career Highlights
5. Accolades and Recognition
6. Leadership and Legacy
7. Personal Life

Early Life and Education

Victor Merezhko was born on July 28, 1937, in Olginfeld, Rostov Oblast, Russia. The son of Ivan and Alexandra Merezhko, he was raised in a family of modest means. After graduating high school, he attempted to study film engineering in Ukraine but failed the entrance exams. Determined to pursue his passion, he enrolled in the Ukrainian Polygraphic Institute, graduating in 1961.

Start of a Screenwriting Career

While working as an engineer in Rostov, Merezhko wrote screenplays as a hobby. In 1964, he submitted his work to the All-Union State Institute of Cinematography (VGIK) and was admitted to the screenwriting faculty. Despite losing his mentor early in his studies, Merezhko's talent shone through. He wrote his first short film screenplay while still a student, which was produced by Mosfilm.

Breakthrough in Film

Graduating from VGIK in 1968, Merezhko struggled to find work in the film industry. With support from his mentor, Ilya Weisfeld, he received a commission from Lenfilm. In 1970, his screenplay "Hello and Goodbye" was adapted into a film, earning critical acclaim. This breakthrough paved the way for a prolific screenwriting career.

Career Highlights

Merezhko has written over 46 film screenplays, including "Kin" (1981), "Relatives" (1982), "Flights in Dreams and in Reality" (1983), and "Lonely Woman Seeks Acquaintance" (1987). Notable for their social and psychological themes, his films have been directed by renowned filmmakers. In addition, Merezhko wrote 16 plays, many of which enjoyed success in Soviet theaters.

Accolades and Recognition

Merezhko's contributions to film and theater have been widely recognized. In 1980, he received the USSR State Prize for "Flights in Dreams and in Reality." He holds the title "Honored Art Worker of the Russian Federation."

Leadership and Legacy

Beyond his creative work, Merezhko has played a significant role in the film industry. He has been the secretary of the Russian and Moscow Cinematographers' Unions for many years. Together with Yuli Gusman, he founded the "NIKA" Film Academy. Merezhko also co-founded the Anapa Film Festival "Kinoshok," one of the most prestigious film events in the former Soviet Union.

Personal Life

Merezhko was married to Tamara Vadimovna from 1973 until her death in 1997. They had two children, Maria and Ivan. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his family, including his beloved parrot, and working on his estate.