Vladimir Eremin Great actor and screenwriter Date of Birth: 06.09.1950 Country: Russia

1. Early Life and Influences
2. Captivated by the Circus
3. Theatrical Beginnings
4. Career Highlights
5. From Acting to Scriptwriting and Producing
6. The Crisis of Russian Cinema
7. The Importance of Acting
8. Television and the Role of Serials
9. Reflections on Negative Roles
10. The "Alphabet" Game
11. Intellectual Players and the Value of Knowledge

Early Life and Influences

Vladimir Yeryomin, an accomplished actor and screenwriter known for his role in the popular TV series "Alphabet," traces his passion for the stage to a rather unexpected source. Born into a non-artistic family in the small Siberian town of Pavlodar, Yeryomin's imagination was ignited by the arrival of a circus-shapito in his neighborhood.

Captivated by the Circus

The allure of the circus proved irresistible for young Yeryomin. He would spend countless hours at the circus grounds, helping out in any way he could, from running errands to assisting the performers. The magic and spectacle on display captivated him, instilling in him an unyielding desire to join the world of entertainment.

Theatrical Beginnings

After the circus left town, Yeryomin pursued his theatrical aspirations by joining a local drama club. He displayed a natural talent and soon enrolled in a studio attached to the theater. This marked the beginning of his formal training and professional journey in the performing arts.

Career Highlights

Yeryomin's acting career has been marked by collaborations with renowned directors and actors. He worked under the tutelage of legendary directors Georgy Alexandrovich Tovstonogov and Pyotr Naumovich Fomenko. On stage, he graced the same space as acclaimed performers such as Alisa Freindlikh, Viktor Strzhelchik, Oleg Basilashvili, and Yefremov Levin.

From Acting to Scriptwriting and Producing

Beyond acting, Yeryomin has expanded his artistic horizons into scriptwriting and producing. He draws parallels between these roles, emphasizing the importance of each in the creative process. According to Yeryomin, producing is a complex and risk-filled endeavor, while scriptwriting remains a crucial element in the success of any film.

The Crisis of Russian Cinema

Yeryomin believes that Russian cinema faces a crisis, particularly in the realm of screenwriting. He sees a lack of originality and a reliance on formulaic storylines. Nonetheless, he remains hopeful that the industry will eventually revive, leading to the emergence of compelling narratives that will resonate with audiences.

The Importance of Acting

While Yeryomin has ventured into other artistic realms, acting remains his true passion. He has devoted the majority of his life to the stage and screen, finding it a thrilling and rewarding pursuit. Despite the challenges, he continues to appreciate the collaborative nature of acting and the opportunity to bring characters to life.

Television and the Role of Serials

Yeryomin acknowledges the importance of television serials in providing financial support to the film industry. However, he also expresses reservations about their artistic value, particularly due to the fast-paced and often low-budget nature of their production. Despite this, he recognizes that some serials have managed to achieve artistic excellence under challenging conditions.

Reflections on Negative Roles

Yeryomin has frequently portrayed negative characters in his acting roles. He believes that his soft and intelligent appearance can be deceiving, allowing him to embody a wide range of personas, from villains to buffoons. However, he regrets that many directors are reluctant to experiment with his image, limiting his opportunities to showcase his versatility.

The "Alphabet" Game

Yeryomin's involvement in the popular TV game "Alphabet" stems from the persistence of producer Dzhanik Fayziev. Initially hesitant, Yeryomin was won over by Fayziev's enthusiasm and the game's positive and accessible format. He praises the ingenuity of the creators and the unique individuals they have brought together as contestants.

Intellectual Players and the Value of Knowledge

Through his role as the host of "Alphabet," Yeryomin has gained a newfound appreciation for the breed of intellectual players. He admires their wit, eccentricity, and their unwavering pursuit of knowledge. While Yeryomin admits that he cannot answer every question posed on the show, he maintains an aura of omniscience that befits a "mini-demiurge."